A Major Win for Australians
A win for everyone, not just for those who use these substances
ABC News reports “The Victorian Government will launch the first of 10 pill Testing trial Sites over new years eve. “
The testing machines will be available at the Beyond the Valley festival, the largest event in Australia to offer pill testing, serving around 35,000 festival goers and the first of another 5, yet to be announced. It’s a significant win in the ongoing battle in the war on drugs and our communities who push consistently for more compassionate drug policies.
As Premier Jacinta Allan aptly put it,
“This is a simple and common-sense way to save lives.”
What to Expect
The pill testing service will operate daily from 1 PM to 7 PM and will be equipped to test pills, capsules, powders, and liquids. This means festival-goers can have their substances checked for potentially dangerous ingredients, all while receiving confidential health information to help them make safer choices.
The Impact
This move is part of a larger shift in Victoria’s drug policy landscape. With the passing of the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Amendment (Pill Testing) Bill 2024, Victoria is now leading the way as the first Australian jurisdiction with dedicated legislation for pill testing. Plus, there are plans for a fixed pill testing site in inner Melbourne by mid-2025. The state is also investing $95 million into an action plan aimed at reducing opiate drug deaths and harm—a clear indication that we’re moving towards a more health-focused approach.
Progress, YES!
This is not just about Beyond The Valley; it’s about changing the conversation around drug use in Australia. By prioritising harm reduction over criminalisation, we’re acknowledging the realities of substance use at festivals and in the broader communities while improving public awareness and saving lives. These changes reflect the growing public support for harm reduction strategies—and with 63% of Australians back pill testing according to a 2019 survey—this aligns with the recommendations of public health experts who have long advocated for these services.
The team at the Australian Psychedelic Society want to congratulate everyone the organisations responsible; The Loop, Harm Reduction Victoria, Youth Support and Advocacy Services involved in making this happen.
Your efforts are paving the way for safer festivals and a more compassionate approach to drug policy in Australia.
This is a win for everyone, not just for those who use these substances.
