Provide independent advice to the Prime Minister, Australian Government Ministers and Ministers in the Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy (MCDS) on national drug strategies, policies, programmes and emerging issues.

Contribute to the effectiveness of Australia’s supply, demand and harm reduction initiatives, consistent with national interest.

Provide independent and strategic advice on drug policy and services to the Australian Government and other bodies and parliamentary parties, as appropriate.

Consult and liaise with the drug and alcohol and related sector, and in particular the non-government sector.

Inform and educate public knowledge and discussion on drug related issues.

Build and maintain partnerships across the range of sectors concerned in dealing with and addressing drug related issues.

Work closely with the MCDS, Inter-governmental Committee on Drugs and other National Drug Strategy Framework partners to develop and implement effective strategies, policies and programmes to reduce the uptake and misuse of illicit and licit drugs.

Maintain effective liaison with other stakeholders, public health advisory bodies and relevant peak non-government organisations, including consumer representatives.

Develop a three year Work Plan for the Council.

Report annually to the Prime Minister and the MCDS on the work of the Council.