Drug diversion programs in NSW (New South Wales) provide offenders who are also drug users an opportunity for education and possibly treatment to help them to overcome their drug use and reduce the likelihood they will commit crimes in the future. Police can exercise their discretion and deal with minor cannabis offences under the Cannabis Cautioning Scheme. They may also choose not to charge people present at an overdose for minor drug matters. In accordance with the NSW Young Offenders Act 1997 , persons who commit less serious drug offences before turning 18 years of age may be eligible for a warning or a caution, or they may be able to participate in a conference, instead of being charged. For adults facing court, the MERIT program provides treatment and rehabilitation for offenders who are on bail, and the Drug Court aims to help those with significant drug problems by diverting them through a supervised rehabilitation and treatment program. Read More About Drug Diversion Programs in NSW