Controversial pill testing to go ahead at Queensland Schoolies

The newly elected LNP government has conceded that it’s too late to go ahead with it’s planned ban on drug testing at this year’s Schoolies festival.

Schoolies on Gold Coast. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

Controversial pill testing will go ahead at this year’s Schoolies festival on the Gold Coast.

The LNP government has conceded that it’s too late to go ahead with it’s planned ban on the drug testing.

“Our position remains that there is no safe way to take drugs and pill testing sends the wrong message,” a spokesman from Health Minister Tim Nicholls’ office said.

“The contract for pill testing at Schoolies this year was a contract let by the previous government. After taking advice so close to the event, the only short-term option is for the Department of Health to honour the contract for this year’s event.”

Queensland Schoolies begin their celebrations next weekend.

The move has been welcomed by the state’s doctors who have been campaigning for the Schoolies pill testing safety net.

“The LNP’s decision to listen to health experts and proceed with pill testing at this year’s Schoolies will improve the safety of Queensland school leavers,” Australian Medical Association Queensland president Nick Yim said.

Pill testing will be conducted at Schoolies on the Gold Coast.

“It is promising that the LNP has chosen to commence their leadership with such a sensible health decision, and we will continue to work with them to ensure this extends to drug diversion laws and permanent pill testing centres,” he said.

“We were heartened when Premier Crisafulli indicated his intentions to seek expert advice on the issue. “We were even more elated to hear he has now listened to our calls and will keep the program in 2024.”

While the health minister has outlined that the LNP does not support pill testing the AMAQ is hopeful the premier will rethink and allow permanent testing.

“I also hope to see the decision extended to the permanent pill testing sites implemented by the previous Government.

Schoolies can understandably create a lot of anxiety for parents as their child leaves for a week long celebration away from home. This decision will provide some comfort to concerned parents” Dr Yim said.

“History shows that experimenting with substances, especially during young adulthood with a lack of knowledge around drug and alcohol use, can lead to harm and death’ he said

Early results of Queensland pill testing services indicate the benefits of education, with 16 per cent of people choosing to dispose of their substance after testing and a discussion with a health professional.

“Maintaining a service like pill testing is a simple, lifesaving form of drug diversion that will minimise harm. The current legislation is backed by experts and provides critical safeguards,” Dr Yim said.