Young Aborigines in Arnhem Land are spending up to two-thirds of their income on cannabis after the drug exploded in popularity across Top End indigenous communities in the late 1990s. A new study into the high rate of cannabis use in Arnhem Land found that drug-related financial pressures had led to widespread violence and intimidation among families, with Aboriginal communities spending about $1 in every $6 on cannabis. The study by the Menzies School of Health Research found cannabis had also added to existing patterns of other substance abuse in Arnhem Land, including petrol-sniffing and amphetamines. [continues 438 words]
David Daniels calls it a sickness. As president of the Yugul Mangi council in southeast Arnhem Land, he is worried about the strong demand for drugs in Top End Aboriginal communities and the amount of money changing hands. And he should know. One of his nephews is an alleged dealer. "It's easy money out here," Mr Daniels said. "Real easy money. The blokes who sell it are making a fortune." With cannabis taking hold in remote communities, the dealers are making a killing. Drugs, like food and everyday supplies, sell at much higher prices than in metropolitan areas. [continues 435 words]
