Driving, drug use behaviour and risk perceptions of nightclub attendees in Victoria, Australia

AimIn anticipation of the introduction of roadside saliva testing in Victoria for recent THC and methylamphetamine use, this study examined the prevalence of illicit drug use among nightclub attendees in Melbourne, Victoria; their transport methods; and their drug use and driving histories.MethodsIn total, 273 persons were interviewed as they entered nightclubs in the inner Melbourne area. Questionnaires addressed drug use, risk perception and driving behaviour.ResultsDrug use on the night of interview was common, with notable proportions reporting that they had used or intended to use cannabis (22%), ecstasy (18%), speed (13%) and crystal/base methamphetamine (6%). Around one in ten participants reported that on the night of interview, they would either drive or be driven by someone under the influence of alcohol (10%), cannabis (11%) and/or methamphetamine (8%). Seventy percent reporting having heard of roadside drug testing and 65% supported it. Forty percent reported that roadside drug testing would change their drug driving behaviour.ConclusionsRoadside drug testing in Victoria may have positive impacts upon drug use and driving risk behaviours among a sample of young persons attending nightclubs. Information provision and increasing the transport options for young people will play a part in reducing the number of young clubbers who use drugs and drive.