Geographic Differences in Public Opinion on Drug Policy: Understanding Patterns of Support and 'Don't Know' Responses

Policymakers and advocates often rely on public opinion to support or oppose certain policies, with national surveys providing an important data source. Different geographic areas have socio-political specificity and are impacted by drug policies in different ways; yet there has been little analysis of public opinion accounting for geographic specificity. This study aimed to understand geographic differences in policy preferences using the case study of Greater Western Sydney (GWS), New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Responses to two policy perception questions from Australia's 2022/23 National Drug Strategy Household Survey were analysed: preferred actions in response to possession and use of cannabis, ecstasy, heroin, methamphetamine, and hallucinogens ('Action' question), and the preferred criminal offence status of cannabis possession ('Criminal' question). Responses in GWS were compared to Rest of Sydney and Rest of NSW. Data were analysed by levels of support and proportions of respondents who did not register an opinion (not answered, 'don't know').

Levels of support for different actions and policy settings varied by area, as did the proportions of respondents who do not register an opinion. The inclusion or exclusion of 'don't know'/not answered responses influences interpretations of levels of public knowledge, engagement, and support.

Public opinion as gauged through national surveys should be understood relative to specific geographies. Understanding whether geographic differences exist is important to understanding what drives support and 'don't know'/not answered responses in relation to drug policy. Differences indicate sites for further analysis and attention in education, engagement and advocacy.