The research consisted of a literature review, a national survey of 210 Australian teachers and others involved in drug education, and structured interviews with 22 key Australian drug-education policy stakeholders. Based on the research findings, 16 principles for effective school-based drug education are presented in tabular form, including an explanatory comment on each principle. The principles indicate that drug education should be based on research evidence that shows what has been effective in reducing drug use and should be developmentally appropriate, sequential, and contextual. Further, education programs should be initiated before drug use begins. Strategies should stem from the goals of the drug education and incorporate harm minimization. Teaching methods should be interactive and use peer leaders, although the role of the classroom teacher is central. Course content must address community values, the social context of drug use, and the nature of the harm caused by drug use. Resistance skills training should also be taught. Follow-up after completion of the course should be done to reinforce what has been learned. 4 tables, 1 figure, and 43 references