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In a move aimed at harm reduction, the Minns Labor Government announced today that it will commence a 12-month pill testing trial at music festivals in early 2025. The trial, costing just over $1 million, will be free and anonymous and allow festival-goers to have their drugs tested for content and purity by qualified health professionals.

This decision follows the government’s recent Drug Summit and recommendations from its co-chairs to implement a trial during the upcoming summer festival season.

NSW Premier Chris Minns emphasised that the trial’s core purpose is to “reduce harm and save lives,” the tragic consequences that can arise from illicit drug use at festivals. He stressed that this initiative does not condone drug use, stating, “This trial does not change police powers, and if you commit a crime, you may be charged and prosecuted,”

“I strongly encourage parents to talk to their kids to remind them there is no safe consumption level of drug use,” Minns said.

While illicit drugs remain illegal in NSW, the government acknowledges the reality of drug use at music festivals. This trial aims to inform individuals about substances, allowing them to make more informed choices and potentially avoid serious health risks.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park highlighted the importance of listening to experts and evidence in addressing complex issues like drug use. “If there are any further steps we can take to keep young people safe this festival season, we’ll listen to the experts and the evidence,” he said.

In a statement, the Law Society of NSW described the trial as a small step towards reducing the harms of illicit drug use.

“The Law Society continues to support the prioritisation of health and safety in public responses to the complex issue of personal use and possession of illicit drugs, said President Brett McGrath.

“This pill testing trial marks welcome progress towards a health centred approach,” he said.

The trial will be implemented in collaboration with NSW Health and NSW Police, with strict amnesty provisions limited to individuals checking drugs for personal use. Police and Counter-terrorism Minister Yasmin Catley reassured the public that law enforcement efforts targeting drug suppliers will remain unchanged. “Police will not change their approach to drug suppliers at these trial sites,” she stated. “Anyone attempting to supply drugs can expect to be targeted by a police operation and brought before the courts.”

Throughout the trial, peer workers will be available to provide harm reduction advice, and data collected will be integrated into existing drug surveillance systems to improve the timeliness and reach of drug warnings. NSW Health will consult with the music festival industry and harm reduction organisations to select participating events, and the trial will be independently evaluated.