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.
- The pill testing service is free, confidential and anonymous. Pill testing gives people a safe space to ask questions and get help without judgement.
- Pill testing began in Victoria during the summer 2024-25 music festival season. The mobile service will attend 10 festivals and events during an 18-month trial. A fixed-site service is due to open in mid-2025.
On this page
Victoria's mobile pill testing service is rolling out at 10 festivals across the state.
What is pill testing?
Pill testing, also known as drug checking, helps people make safer choices by showing them what's really in their drugs. When people are provided with accurate information, they make better, more informed choices. 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 judgement. It helps people understand the risks and make informed decisions around their intended 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 free, confidential and anonymous.
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 chemist will analyse.
A trained healthcare worker will talk to you about the results of the substance you had tested and provide tailored 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 dependence
- the possible consequences of using the drug and how to reduce the harms the substance may cause
- how the substance may interact with prescription medications and existing health conditions
- how to access health services or other supports.
Pill testing 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 in a confidential, legal, judgement-free space.
You will not get into trouble for using the pill testing service as it is legal to use.
Pill testing at music festivals
Victoria's mobile pill testing service will be available at 10 festivals and events during an 18-month trial.
The first event to have pill testing was at Beyond the Valley Festival in December 2024.
A fixed-site service is due to open in mid-2025 in inner Melbourne, close to nightlife and transport.
Which festivals have pill testing?
The pill testing service will operate at the following events during the 2024-25 music festival season:
- Hardmission at Werribee Racecourse on 8 February 2025
- Pitch Music & Arts Festival in Moyston from 7 to 11 March 2025
- Ultra at Flemington Racecourse on 12 April 2025
- The Warehouse Project at Port Melbourne Industrial Centre for the Arts (PICA) on 25 April 2025
Additional events the mobile pill testing service will attend over 2025-26 will be announced later in the year.
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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