Confidential and Free Pill-Testing at Surfers Paradise
This year, Schoolies attendees in Surfers Paradise will have access to a new, confidential, and free pill-testing service. This follows the tiered approach to police drug diversions for minor drug possessions.
The Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other Legislation Amendment Bill
2023 amended the Penalties and Sentences Act and Police Powers and Responsibilities Act
Addressing Rising Drug Use Among Young Women
Recent findings from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey reveal a concerning rise in drug use among young women aged 18 to 24, who are now taking illicit drugs at the same rate as young men. More than one-third of young women have reported taking illicit drugs in the past 12 months, up from 27% in 2019. This service aims to mitigate these risks by providing accurate information about drug contents and promoting safer behaviors.
Health Based Issue
In the Inquiry into Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 , Peter Russo MP spoke of the desirability of addressing drug use as a health-based concern rather than a criminal justice issue.
It was noted by the Queensland Mental Health Commissioner that the police play a vital role in shifting the issue from a criminal justice response to a health-based response. I couldn’t agree more.
Proven Effectiveness of Pill-Testing Services
Drug-checking services have shown success in reducing drug-related harm and informing users about the risks associated with their substances. Earlier this year, Australia’s first multi-day music festival pill-testing initiative at the Rabbits Eat Lettuce Festival tested 250 substances, demonstrating the demand and efficacy of such services.
Expansion of the Pill-Testing Initiative
The Schoolies site builds on the recent establishment of fixed-site and event-based drug-checking services.
There are currently two fixed-site services,
- Bowen Hills established in April and
- Burleigh, established in July.
The Bowen Hills site has seen, 40 visitors who have brought 80 samples in for testing. Following testing there has been a disposal of over half of the substances tested.