Calls for Queensland to embrace pill testing

The Greens have called for pill testing sites to be introduced in Queensland’s busiest night-life precincts as new research finds a quarter of Queenslanders are now using drugs.

A quarter of Queenslanders are using drugs, making the state one of the worst in the country for illicit drug use, as new research reveals one in two Australians know someone who is struggling with addiction.

The latest figures, from The Banyans Healthcare Group, come after the Greens called for pill testing sites to be introduced in Queensland’s busiest night-life precincts.

Banyans Healthcare Group Addiction Psychiatrist Dr Sampath Arvapalli, said that although number of drug related deaths in Queensland has been increasing, most overdoses are preventable.

Dr Sampath Arvapalli, Psychiatrist at The Banyans Healthcare Group. Photo: supplied

“At least 75 per cent of them (drug overdoses) are accidental,” Dr Arvapalli said.

“All these deaths could be prevented at some stage if we had an opportunity to intervene”.

In 2020, there were almost 2,000 drug related deaths, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Banyans Healthcare Group CEO Ruth Limkin, said tackling drug dependence and addiction requires a more holistic approach to treatment.

“The potential to overdose exists no matter whether you’re a casual drug user, first timer or have been living with an addiction or dependency for years,” Ms Limkin said.

The Banyas research based off a survey of more than 2000 Aussies, showed 15 per cent of Aussies have struggled with drug addiction themselves.

Dr Arvapalli said pill testing has been around for more than 20 years and there’s been no evidence to suggest it has a negative impact on society.

“I’ve seen personally myself how these things can impact on reducing overdoses,” he said.

“When you look at the risks versus benefits, the benefits definitely outweigh the risks in this case”.

Chemical Analyst, Patrick test for substance for fentanyl at Australia’s first fixed pill-testing clinic in Canberra. Picture: Martin Ollman

According to Queensland Network of Alcohol and Other Drug Agencies’ position statement, drug checking should be implemented immediately in Queensland.

“Evidence shows positive public health benefits for drug checking,” they said.

QNADA recognises drug checking services as essential health services, which have the potential to save lives and reduce harms associated with the use of illicit drugs.

But a Queensland Government spokesman said there had been no decision to implement drug checking this time.

“We are continuing to work with stakeholders including other government agencies on any new approaches,” they said.

The Banyans Group is encouraging Australians struggling with substance addiction to reach out for support amid Drug Overdose Day (August 31).

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction call 1300 226 926