BRISBANE legend Jonathan Brown says the AFL is not immune from party drug use and athletes who are caught taking illicit substances should face harsher penalties.

With the QCCC investigation into a cocaine trafficking network gripping Queensland sport, the retired triple premiership star says tougher suspensions could act as a deterrent.

“I think we would be naive to think there wouldn’t be some players taking them in the AFL as well,’’ Brown said today.

“I’ve never been that way inclined but potentially they might need to look at stiffer penalties when it is such a big problem.

REDS BAN HUNT FROM TRAINING

AFL CHIEF ON QLD DRUGS SCANDAL

“It (the results and revelations from the QCCC investigation) probably doesn’t really totally surprise everyone does it?

“In society, drugs is a big problem.

“It’s always going to find its way into professional sport especially when the people are involved are on big wages and a very public profile.

“There’s a lot of temptation for the young athletes nowadays, for any professional athlete.’’

Brown said the AFL’s three strikes policy was getting some results but needed to be looked at.

“The numbers say it’s worked well because the numbers (of positive tests) have gradually been decreasing while the tests have been going up,’’ he said.

“Would a stiffer penalty hanging over your head stop you from doing it, maybe think twice at 2am in the morning at a nightclub when you are going to take the illicit substances? Personally, I think it would.’’

Brown said it was time for professional athletes to “stand up’’ and be better role models.

“We have to be real leaders in the community,’’ he said.

“I can’t understand why you would do it (take drugs) when you are a professional sportsman.

“I think we are in a very privileged and lucky position to be getting paid to play sports that we love.’’