Implement pre-court diversion for drug users now, author of NSW ice inquiry urges

Prof Dan Howard says he's puzzled' it took the government nearly three years to agree to such modest changes in policing

• Get our free news app, morning email briefing or daily news podcast

The author of a landmark inquiry into crystal methamphetamine (ice") addiction in New South Wales has warned the government's commitment to expand pre-court diversion for drug users in the state could be pushed into the never-never" if it is not implemented by the March election.

On Wednesday the NSW government released its long-awaited response to Prof Dan Howard's 14-month inquiry into drug addiction in NSW, committing to spending $500m on expanded treatment services and justice initiatives.

Sign up to receive an email with the top stories from Guardian Australia every morning

Sign up to receive an email with the top stories from Guardian Australia every morning