McLachlan was addressing the media after photos emerged of Gold Coast star Harley Bennell with white powder in a Tasmania hotel room.
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He said there was a delicate balance between the rights and responsibilities of players, and between welfare and accountability.
“We can’t say that we care about making a difference to players lives and turn away when there is pressure”.
McLachlan has reiterated that action needs to be taken against AFL players the first time they are caught using illicit drugs and that the league’s controversial “three strikes policy” was under review.
McLachlan said the club, which sits bottom of the ladder, retained his confidence and was only enduring the same issues faced by foundation AFL sides.
‘This club will get through the challenges and be stronger for it.’.
AFL head of corporate affairs Elizabeth Lukin said the AFL was made aware of the pictures, and had spoken to the club and player.
Bennell, arguably the Suns’ second biggest star behind captain Gary Ablett, is understood to have had his wild night in Launceston on March 21, 2013.
“I said at the time that the research we had suggested our policy was not working and it should be changed”, he said.
“Our priority overnight and throughout the morning is the genuine concern for Harley and his welfare”, the statement read. “Other issues will be considered over the coming days”.
Ex- Suns player Karmichael Hunt, who now faces drug charges, acted as a mentor to Bennell during their time together at the club.
The Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission said on Wednesday there were no immediate plans to charge more footballers following Hunt’s claims.
The QCCC says despite the reports, it doesn’t have enough evidence to warrant any further charges against players from the AFL, NRL or rugby union.
Former Sun Karmichael Hunt has reportedly named up to 12 of his ex-AFL teammates for allegedly taking cocaine during various end-of-season functions as part of a statement given to police following his own conviction on cocaine possession charges.
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“However, consistent with any law enforcement investigation, if new information comes to hand relevant to the CCC’s ongoing investigation, further charges may be considered”, the statement read.
