Understanding and Responding to the Rise of Steroid Injecting in Australia: Recommendations from a National Consultation

This report details findings from a national consultation on illicit steroid use in Australia undertaken between late 2014 and early 2015. The report presents findings from interviews conducted with a range of stakeholders, including academics, policymakers, service providers, user group representatives and other advocates. These interviews explored the phenomenon of steroid injecting along with the contemporary landscape of research, policy and practice in the Australian context. Interview questions were concerned with future directions for research on illicit steroid use, the relationship between research and policy, the relationship between drug services and policy implementation, and the most appropriate public health responses. This report presents participants’ perceptions of steroid injecting, key risks and responses, and needs for future research. The report also details participants’ perceptions of the landscape of steroids-related research, policy and practice in Australia, including the extent to which these three fields are sufficiently integrated, and where appropriate, strategies for improving the interface between these spheres of practice.