A new wastewater testing program has been introduced at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC) as part of ongoing efforts to monitor and respond to drug use.
The testing, which began in May 2025, helps identify traces of drugs and illicit substances present at the AMC. It complements existing drug and alcohol testing strategies, including testing of all incoming detainees as well as random and targeted testing during detention.
Minister for Corrections Dr Marisa Paterson said the initiative is an important step in strengthening ACT Corrective Services' approach to drug management.
"Wastewater testing gives us another tool to understand what substances may be circulating in the AMC," Dr Paterson said.
A sample taken on 13 May 2025 showed elevated levels of amphetamines, methylamphetamine and EDDP, a metabolite of methadone. These findings align with urinalysis data from the same period, which indicated a high rate of newly admitted detainees entering custody under the influence of illicit substances.
While the initial results are informative, Dr Paterson emphasised that more data is needed before drawing firm conclusions.
"It's important to note that this is just the beginning. We need ongoing monitoring and comparative data to fully understand the implications and to guide future action," Dr Paterson said.
The wastewater testing program will continue as part of the AMC's broader drug strategy, which includes random and targeted testing, support services, and rehabilitation programs.
Challenges in keeping correctional centres completely free of contraband, including drugs, are experienced universally across correctional facilities within Australia and beyond.
ACTCS has a comprehensive range of tools and processes to prevent contraband from entering the AMC and is continually improving its contraband detection and prevention methods to adapt to new and evolving attempts to introduce contraband into AMC.
Quotes attributable to ACT Corrective Services Commissioner Leanne Close:
"Wastewater testing provides us with another tool to support policies, programs and intelligence systems currently used to minimise drug harm at the AMC. In line with our health-first approach to treating drug use, this newest form of testing provides valuable evidence to inform our approach and support detainees in managing substance use.
"By combining wastewater results with other testing methods, we can better understand patterns of drug use and respond more effectively."
