Legalise Cannabis, Animal Justice, and Greens Lead Charge for Permanent Pill Testing in Victoria

Victoria has announced that its pill testing service, after an 18-month trial, will become permanent, influenced by persistent advocacy from Legalise Cannabis, Animal Justice Party, and Victorian Greens. Premier Jacinta Allan emphasised the lifesaving potential of the service, aligning Victoria with other territories like the ACT and Queensland.

Key Points:

Harm Reduction: Users can test substances at festivals and a fixed Melbourne location to identify deadly components, not legalising drug use but promoting informed choices.
Service Details: Starting this summer, mobile services will attend festivals, with a fixed site planned by mid-2025. Testing includes pills, powders, and liquids, crucial after 46 overdose deaths in 2022.
Support and Legislation: Supported by health organisations, legislation ensures legality. A decision on funding by early 2026.
Advocacy and Opposition: Legalise Cannabis Victoria pushed for immediate implementation, supported by crossbenchers. Opposition fears it could encourage drug use.
Proven Success: Modelled after ACT’s effective pill testing, CanTEST in Canberra.

Conclusion:

Victoria’s move towards permanent pill testing reflects a shift towards evidence-based harm reduction. Continued monitoring will be vital to ensuring community health and safety.