Victoria’s first mobile pill testing service has made a strong debut, with data from the Beyond the Valley music festival revealing young people are eager for harm reduction advice that could save lives.
Acting Minister for Mental Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced today that the free and confidential service engaged with over 700 attendees, predominantly aged in their late teens and early twenties, and tested more than 600 drug samples. MDMA, ketamine, and cocaine were among the most common substances analysed.
“These preliminary insights have highlighted that a simple drug check can lead to meaningful conversations about health and wellbeing – a crucial step in our harm reduction strategy.”
Preliminary data highlights the service’s positive impact, with nearly 40 per cent of patrons reporting they would take smaller amounts of their drugs after consulting with healthcare workers. For many, these discussions were their first-ever open and judgement-free conversations about drug and alcohol safety with a professional.
The service played a vital role in identifying potential risks, particularly for individuals with pre-existing medical or mental health conditions. Some were unaware of how recreational drugs might interact with their health or prescription medications, including antidepressants.
One patron, newly prescribed antidepressants, decided against using MDMA after a discussion with health workers about potential side effects and risks. On multiple occasions, festivalgoers re-evaluated their decisions after learning the possible consequences of drug use.
Sarah Hiley, Drug Checking Director for The Loop Australia, said,
“The response has exceeded our expectations. Our team of chemists, healthcare workers, and harm reduction specialists engaged hundreds of young people in meaningful conversations about safety.”
Run by The Loop Australia and Harm Reduction Victoria in partnership with Youth Support and Advocacy Service (YSAS), the service tested up to 200 samples daily, making it the most efficient pill testing initiative in the country.
Pete Sofo, Director of Festivals and Major Events for Untitled Group, said,
“This trial has been an invaluable resource for festivalgoers. We’re proud to collaborate with the Victorian Government and other partners to prioritise the health and safety of our attendees.”
The trial is part of the Allan Labor Government’s $95 million Statewide Action Plan aimed at reducing drug harm and saving lives. With its promising start, Victoria’s mobile pill testing service is already proving its worth in reducing harm and fostering informed choices among young people.
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