Greens’ spokesperson for health and former VFA footballer, Senator Richard Di Natale, said that outgoing Hawthorn President Jeff Kennett’s criticism of the AFL’s illicit drugs policy is dangerous and that as Chairman of Beyond Blue he should know better.

“Jeff Kennett’s criticism of the AFL’s illicit drugs policy comes from a desire to help but his comments were dangerous,” said Senator Di Natale.

“Drug use is often linked to depression or mental health issues and exposing a user to their employer after one indiscretion could be the thing that pushes them over the edge. As someone who has been involved in depression his comments are insensitive, potentially damaging and he should know better.

“Naming and shaming is a retrograde step and could actually lead to self harm. Someone with a drug problem should always be referred to a health professional as a first step.

“The AFL has shown tremendous leadership on this issue in developing their illicit drugs policy with input from public health experts and the players themselves.

“The policy has been very effective in reducing the number of positive tests.”

The percentage of positive tests has dropped from over 4% of players tested to less than 0.4% in the six years since the introduction of the policy.

“As a former GP and someone who has worked in the area of drug and alcohol treatment, I believe that this is a success story for the AFL and they deserve to be congratulated.”

Media contact: Andrew Blyberg 0457 901 600