Services
Victoria's Drug Testing Service Trial
Victoria’s pill testing trial aims to reduce harm by helping people understand what’s really in their substances and providing reliable and confidential health advice so they can make informed decisions.
Victoria has seen a rise in drug-related emergency department admissions and overdose deaths involving novel synthetic drugs. Victorian paramedics responded to more drug overdoses at festivals in the first 3 months of 2024 than during all of 2023.
The evidence shows that pill testing doesn’t encourage people to use drugs. It allows people to see what’s really in their substances and make informed, safer decisions.
It’s not about promoting drug use; it’s about making sure people who are already taking risks can do so as safely as possible.
How does the Service Work?
1. Arrival and Introduction
You'll be greeted by a team member who will explain the process, wait times, and share health information.
2. Sample Drop-Off and Lab Analysis
Provide a small sample, which will be photographed and labelled with a unique ID, and sent for analysis. Chemists analyse the sample. If anything unexpected or harmful is found, senior staff are alerted immediately.
3. Health Check-In
While you wait, you can chat with a team member about your health and access extra support if needed.
4. Results and Advice
Results are shared in a private conversation, along with harm reduction advice tailored to your sample and situation
6. Secure Disposal
You'll have the option to safely dispose of any remaining substances.
The service is confidential, non-judgmental, and focused on keeping you informed and safe.
FAQs
Do the providers have experience in delivering these services?
At Evolution Events , we’re committed to providing a safe and supportive space for all festival-goers. That’s why we’ve partnered with some of the most experienced and trusted organisations to deliver harm reduction and drug checking services at the festival.
Who are the providers?
Each of our partners brings unparalleled expertise in their field, ensuring that your health and safety remain at the heart of your experience: The Loop Australia: Experts in drug checking, The Loop operates the CheQpoint drug checking service in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. With a proven track record, they’ve successfully delivered services at the Earth Frequency Festival and for the Queensland Government’s Schoolies response in 2024. YSAS: With over 26 years of experience, YSAS supports young people in overcoming challenges with drugs and alcohol, improving mental health, and leading fulfilling lives. Harm Reduction Victoria: The team behind DanceWize has been at the forefront of peer education and harm reduction, empowering festival-goers with vital information and support at music events across the state.
Why will there be drug checking at Hardmission Melbourne 2025 ?
By offering drug testing at Hardmission Melbourne 2025 , we’re providing a harm reduction service to help people stay informed and make safer decisions during the festival. We want to ensure everyone has access to resources that prioritise their safety.
What hours will the service be operational at ?
This service will be available to our attendees between 2pm and 7pm.
What substances can the machines check?
Most drugs in pills, capsules, powders, crystals, or liquid form can be tested. Some substances like plants, or diluted solutions may not be suitable for testing.
How long does it take?
For most people, the process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. If extra support is needed, it might take a little longer-but our team will always keep you updated on wait times, so you know what to expect. We’re here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on enjoying your festival experience.
How much do I need to provide for testing?
The minimum amount we need to run the analyses is about 0.01g, which is about the size of a match head).
To keep you safe, we ask you to bring in is a To keep you safe, we ask you to bring in no more than a ‘small quantity’, which is up to 0.75g amphetamine, methamphetamine, ketamine, or MDMA; up to 1g cocaine or heroin; up to 10g GHB; and up to 20mg LSD.
Is it legal?
Yes. Using the drug checking service is the same as using any other health service – it’s completely legal. You can’t be arrested or charged for using it. Please note that while Victoria Police are committed to ensuring patrons are safe to access the service, the usual laws around possession, use, and supply of drugs still applies outside the service.
What is Harm Reduction information?
Harm reduction information is all about helping you stay informed and safer. When you use the drug-checking service, you’ll get: * Details about your sample: What’s in it, including any harmful substances, poisons, or drugs of dependence. * Safety advice: Tips on the risks of using the substance and how to reduce potential harm. * Support info: Guidance on accessing health services or other support if you need it. It’s all about giving you the knowledge to make safer choices.
What happens if someone overdoses at Hardmission?
Festivals like Hardmission already have reliable plans in place to handle emergencies, including overdoses. The drug checking service is fully connected to the existing emergency management systems, which involve the festival team, medical teams, Ambulance Victoria, and Victoria Police. Your safety is always the top priority, and all teams work together to respond quickly if something happens.
Will the service tell me if it’s safe to take my drugs?
No, the service won’t tell you that your drugs are ‘safe,’ ‘good,’ or ‘pure.’ That’s not what it’s about. What the service does is give you information about what’s in your sample and offer advice on ways to reduce the risk of harm. The goal is to help you make informed choices and avoid needing emergency medical help.
What happens if a dangerous substance is found?
If a dangerous or high-risk substance is identified, the service provider will immediately follow agreed processes to share this information with the festival organisers, medical teams, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, and the Department of Health. Everyone works together to respond quickly and appropriately.
Will I need to use my ID?
No, you will not need to show ID or disclose any personal information at the drug checking site.
How will police operate during the festival?
We’re working closely with Victoria Police to make sure everyone feels safe and supported. The local police commander is involved every step of the way, from planning to the festival itself. Police will still enforce drug laws, but the focus is on keeping things fair and prioritizing public health and safety. Most importantly, no one should feel deterred from using harm reduction services like pill testing.
Will it still be illegal to use or deal drugs near the service?
Yes, the usual laws around possession, use, and supply of illicit drugs still apply outside or near the service. The legal changes only cover how the pill testing service operates. However, police can choose not to charge someone in the area if they’re using the service to prioritise safety and health.
Are there safeguards to stop police from targeting people using the service?
Yes. The new legislation allows police to use discretion and choose not to charge someone found with an illicit substance within the vicinity of the drugchecking service, provided the amount is less than a trafficable quantity. How this is managed will ultimately be guided by Victoria Police to ensure people can safely access the service.
Will police be present at the service?
No, police will not be present at the drug checking service. The Department of Health has worked closely with Victoria Police and will continue to support them in creating operational guidelines to ensure the service runs smoothly.
Will people be arrested for using the service?
No, you won’t be arrested for using the drug checking service. It’s completely legal to access while you’re in the designated area. Outside the service, drug possession laws in Victoria still apply. To keep things safe and fair, exemptions are in place for anyone at this service area, as long as the amount is under a trafficable quantity and stays within the service area. We’re working closely with Victoria Police to make sure these arrangements are clear and don’t discourage anyone from accessing this important harm reduction service.