New South Wales is turning a temporary harm-reduction trial into a recurring program at music festivals.
From trial to policy
The state government announced A$4.3 million to fund free, anonymous drug-checking services at selected festivals. The next phase begins in October and could cover up to 15 events annually.
What the trial found
Over 12 months, more than 1,800 people used the service and qualified staff analysed around 1,500 samples. An independent evaluation led by the University of Sydney associated the program with fewer drug-related emergency hospital visits and intensive-care admissions compared with previous editions of the same festivals.
How it works
Festivalgoers can submit a small sample for analysis of purity, potency and adulterants. Staff explain the findings alongside harm-reduction advice. Disposal bins are available for anyone who decides not to take the substance.
What the measure cannot do
The government stresses that testing does not make drug use safe and that illicit drugs remain illegal. The policy starts from a different premise: when drug use is already taking place, reliable information and contact with health professionals may reduce serious harm.