Summary
Read the full fact sheet- Pill testing helps people make safer choices by showing them what's really in their drugs. When they know the risks, they're less likely to take harmful substances.
- Pill testing starts in Victoria during the summer 2024-25 music festival season. The mobile service will attend 10 festivals and events throughout the 18-month trial. A fixed-site service is due to open in mid-2025.
- The service is voluntary, anonymous and confidential. Pill testing gives people a safe space to ask questions and get help without judgment.
On this page
What is pill testing?
Pill testing helps people make safer choices by showing them what's really in their drugs. When they know the risks, they're less likely to take harmful substances (drugs). Check. Choose. Stay safe.
Drug checking equipment can test the makeup of most pills, capsules, powders, crystals or liquids. It can identify harmful substances, including dangerous synthetic opioids, like fentanyl and nitazenes.
Some substances like plants or diluted solutions may not be suitable for testing.
Pill testing gives people a safe space to ask questions and get help without judgment. It helps people understand the risks and make informed decisions around drug use.
Pill testing doesn't promote drug use. It's about giving people the facts so they can make informed choices and reduce potential harm.
How does pill testing work?
The pill testing service is voluntary, free of charge, anonymous and confidential.
When you arrive at the service you will be asked to provide a small sample of your drugs. This is usually a tiny scraping of a pill or a bit of powder that a trained chemist will analyse.
A trained peer worker will talk to you about the results of the substance you had tested, as well as general health and harm reduction advice.
The talk may include:
- information about what the substance is made of, including the presence of any poisons, controlled substances or drugs of dependences
- information about using drugs, including the possible consequences and advice on how to reduce the harms that the substance may cause
- advice about accessing health services or other supports.
Drug checking does not make drugs safe and using drugs may still harm your health, even if you get them checked.
For many, this will be the first time they've had a chance to talk openly with a health professional about drug use. It's a private, judgment-free space to ask questions, get advice, and think twice about their decisions.
You will not get into trouble for using the pill testing service as it is legal to use.
Pill testing at music festivals
Pill testing services will first be available at music festivals and events.
The first event to have pill testing is the Beyond the Valley Festival in December 2024. The mobile pill testing service will be available at 10 festivals and events during the 18 months of the service trial.
Further details of festivals and events where pill testing is available will be published in early 2025.
A fixed-site service is due to open in mid-2025 in inner Melbourne, close to nightlife and transport.
How to reduce the risk of overdose
The safest choice is not to use drugs, but if you do, take steps to protect yourself:
- If you choose to use, take a small amount first and wait until you feel the effects before you decide whether to take more or not. Start low and go slow. Time of onset and effects can vary and there is always a risk.
- Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather. Drink water and hydrolytes regularly.
- Festivals are more fun with friends, so watch out for each other. If someone feels unwell, find help straight away. You won’t get into trouble if you ask for help.
- Overheating, confusion, or trouble breathing are red flags. Get help quickly – medical staff are there to assist, not judge.
- Many festivals have chill-out zones and harm reduction services. Use them if you feel overwhelmed or need support.
- Set limits, have a sober buddy, and know where to go for help before you need it.
All alcohol and other drug use comes with risks, so take the following precautions:
- Be aware that false or contaminated drug products may be in Victoria, even if no specific warning has been issued about them.
- Get free naloxone and carry it with you – no matter what drugs you think you’re getting.
- Make sure you're in a safe environment with people you trust.
- Remember, even 'pure' drugs can have serious side effects and cause death, and can interact dangerously with medication. Get the facts on the Alcohol and Drug Foundation website.
See Drug overdose to learn what a drug overdose looks like and what to do if someone around you needs help.
Where to get help
- In an emergency, always call triple zero (000). Paramedics are focused on saving lives, not reporting drug use
- Harm Reduction Victoria's DanceWize Email info@dancewize.org.au – for anonymous support and education from peers
- DirectLine Tel. 1800 888 236 – for help with alcohol or drug use, information, and support to access treatment
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