Strawberry Fields festival is set to become the latest major event to host an onsite drug checking service as part of New South Wales’ ongoing drug checking trial. This initiative, aimed at enhancing harm reduction measures for festivalgoers, will take place from Friday, November 21, to Sunday, November 23, 2025, in Tocumwal, located in southern NSW.
The festival marks the fifth event to participate in the 12-month NSW drug checking trial. The service, both free and anonymous, allows festival patrons to bring small samples of substances they intend to consume. These samples will be analyzed on-site by qualified health staff, providing patrons with detailed information about the substances, including potency when possible, thanks to available technology. Additionally, attendees will receive advice on reducing risks if they choose to take the substance.
Enhancing Safety Through Informed Decisions
Trained peer workers will be on hand to offer tailored guidance about the risks associated with drug use, confidential support, and information about additional support services. While illicit drugs remain illegal in NSW, the trial acknowledges the reality of drug use at music festivals and seeks to mitigate potential harm.
NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr. Kerry Chant, emphasized that the service aims to help individuals make informed decisions to reduce drug-related harm, though it is not a guarantee of safety.
“This trial aims to inform individuals about substances, allowing them to avoid dangerous substances, discard high-risk drugs, make safer and more informed choices, and potentially avoid serious health risks,” Dr. Chant stated. “Our priority is to reduce harm and keep people safe.”
Festival’s Commitment to Harm Reduction
Strawberry Fields General Manager Vicky Keeler expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting its alignment with the festival’s harm minimization efforts.
“We are committed to creating the safest possible environment for everyone who attends our events,” Ms. Keeler said. “Drug checking is an important step forward in harm reduction, giving patrons access to free, professional advice that can help them make more informed decisions. Partnering with NSW Health on this initiative reflects our ongoing focus on safety, care, and wellbeing for our community.”
Trial’s Broader Implications and Future Evaluation
The NSW drug checking trial will encompass up to 12 music festivals, running until the end of February next year, at which point it will undergo an independent evaluation. This development follows the NSW Government’s Drug Summit, which concluded in December 2024. The summit’s report prioritized the action of trialing music festival-based drug testing as a means to address drug-related issues.
Meanwhile, the trial represents a significant shift in public health policy, acknowledging the challenges of illicit drug use and focusing on harm reduction rather than punitive measures. This approach is part of a broader trend seen in various jurisdictions worldwide, where harm reduction strategies are increasingly being adopted to address drug-related issues.
As the trial progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its outcomes to determine its effectiveness and potential for broader implementation. The results could pave the way for more comprehensive harm reduction policies across Australia.
Further information about the NSW drug checking trial can be found through official channels, providing transparency and updates to the public as the initiative continues.
