Andrew Swindells

Drawing on a uniquely complex and extremely challenging life journey, Andrew’s career began in the high-stakes world of the Australian Federal Police, where he served as a Drug Squad Detective in Sydney during one of the country’s most corrupt periods. Firsthand exposure to the brutal and often counterproductive nature of the drug war led Andrew to question drug prohibition. His early career involved drug raids, shootouts, undercover work, and confrontations with organised crime, but it also provided him with a rare perspective on the insane harms of criminalisation, particularly on the vulnerable and non-violent.

Following his time with law enforcement, Andrew completed three degrees and then became a criminal defence barrister and later Counsel Assisting the Crime and Misconduct Commission, tackling organised crime and outlaw motorcycle gangs. His deep understanding of the legal system’s limitations, failures, and corruption only further cemented his belief in the need for a radical rethink of drug policy. These insights laid the foundation for his books, which present a compelling argument for decriminalisation and the responsible use of psychotherapeutic plant medicines.

Andrew’s keynote talk, “Dealing or Healing: Unlocking the Potential of Psychotherapeutic Plant Medicines,” brings his research, field experience, and personal insights to life. In it, he explores the benefits of plant medicines for mental health, trauma recovery, and personal growth, providing audiences with a compelling look at the ways in which these natural substances can facilitate improvement in society through true healing and self-actualisation.

Through powerful anecdotes and practical insights, Andrew addresses the past, present, and future of psychotherapeutic plant medicines, the barriers that fear and misinformation have created around psychotherapeutic plant medicines like ayahuasca and psilocybin, and offers a path forward that prioritises human rights and embraces scientific and therapeutic innovation.

With humor, honesty, and a wealth of experience, Andrew captivates his audience, guiding them through the past, present, and future of drugs and prohibition and the profound benefits of transformative medicines. His talks empower listeners to rethink societal norms and inspire personal and collective change toward a healthier, more humane, conscious future.

Workshop/Presentation

Dealing or Healing

In his powerful keynote, Andrew dives into the heart of one of society's most pressing and misunderstood issues: drug prohibition and the healing potential of psychotherapeutic plant medicines like psilocybin and ayahuasca. Drawing on a career that spans roles as a Drug Squad Detective, criminal defense barrister, judicial officer, and international legal consultant, Andrew offers an unfiltered look at the devastating effects of the “war on drugs” and the profound opportunities that lie in embracing plant medicines.

The keynote begins by challenging the audience to rethink entrenched ideas about drugs and addiction, illuminating how prohibition has failed communities, fueled crime, and perpetuated suffering. With insights from his book, “Dealing or Healing? Reality Checking Drug Wars, Drug Wonders, and Our Fantastic Future,” Andrew exposes the harmful impact of current policies on individuals who would otherwise benefit from therapeutic access to plant medicines. He argues that drug policy reform is not only a public health imperative but a matter of human rights.

Through candid storytelling and real-world examples, Andrew draws from his own experiences in law enforcement and the legal system, sharing moments that reveal the limitations and often counterproductive outcomes of criminalizing drug use. He highlights how decades of prohibition have ignored scientific evidence and marginalized those who seek alternative healing. Andrew’s advocacy is grounded in compassion and evidence, making a strong case for regulated access to plant medicines that can address trauma, addiction, and mental health.

Andrew then guides the audience through the transformative potential of psychotherapeutic plant medicines, illustrating how they can serve as catalysts for self-actualization, inner peace, and resilience. He provides practical insights into how these substances, when used responsibly, can help individuals break free from mental constraints, overcome trauma, and connect with their highest potential. Audience members are invited to reflect on their own beliefs and fears, leaving them with a sense of empowerment and a new perspective on what true healing could look like for society. With a blend of expertise, vulnerability, and a sense of humor.