YARRA: Pill testing starts in Brunswick St
The State Government’s fixed site pill testing service at Fitzroy has openecd its doors.
Ingrid Stitt, Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt (pictured) last week announced the Victorian Pill Testing Service was to begin operating from its new home at 95 Brunswick St , Fitzroy on Thursday (Aug. 21).
It offers ree, confidential, and non-judgmental harm reduction advice from health professionals.
The fixed site will operate three days a week – Thursdays (12 Noon–4pm), Fridays (3pm–7pm) and Saturdays (1pm–7pm).
The site is located in the heart of one of Melbourne’s busiest nightlife hubs, the service is close to public transport, community health and social services.
“Like the mobile service, the fixed site will reduce drug harm and save lives by testing most pills, capsules, powders, crystals and liquids, while detecting highly dangerous synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and Nitazenes,” said a Government representative.
These substances are increasingly present in the drug market and can cause overdose and death.
The service will continue to be delivered by the consortium of Youth Support and Advocacy Service, The Loop Australia and Harm Reduction Victoria, with support from Melbourne Health, Youth Projects and Metabolomics Australia (University of Melbourne).
“The evidence is clear – pill testing works and that’s why we’ve delivered both a fixed site and mobile services to reach as many Victorians as possible,” said Ms Stitt.
“With Victoria’s first fixed pill testing service now open, we’re giving people more opportunities to have honest, health-focused conversations and get the information they need to make safer choices.”