NSW: Young people targeted in cannabis awareness campaign

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NSW: Young people targeted in cannabis awareness campaign

SYDNEY, Dec 29 AAP - Young cannabis users will be targeted in a new NSW governmentcampaign launched today.

Images and messages about the potential problems associated with cannabis use willbe displayed in metropolitan, regional and rural NSW in January.

NSW Special Minister of State John Della Bosca said the campaign would raise youngpeople's awareness about cannabis use.

"Many young people mistakenly view cannabis as a healthy drug, a drug without consequences,"

he said.

"They need to know that's not the case, there are risks associated with their actions."

The campaign will show images of young people at a party, playing sport and at theschool formal, showing the negative effect the drug can have.

The advertisements will appear in the toilets of cinemas and shopping centres.

Mr Della Bosca said government research showed that more than a third of 14- to 19-year-oldshave used cannabis.

Studies show adverse health and psychological effects from cannabis use, coupled withsocial impacts, impaired driving and relationship difficulties.

AAP kn/dl/sb

KEYWORD: CANNABIS YOUTH