Rosalie Woodruff MP | Greens Health spokesperson
Police Minister Felix Ellis should listen to the growing demands for pill testing to be implemented in Tasmania, and act to allow this life-saving measure.
Pill testing has again been in the spotlight in recent weeks as music festivals return to pre-Covid popularity. Queensland announced it will follow the ACT and introduce this health measure, and yesterday the Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Council called for the introduction of pill testing in Tasmania.
The Greens have championed this crucial harm reduction policy for many years, alongside experts in health and drug policy. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners pointed to the health benefits of pill testing last month, saying it’s “evidence-based policy that makes sense and will save lives”.
There is compelling evidence from mainland Australia and around the world that pill testing works to make festivals safer. Despite this, the Tasmanian Liberals have let their conservative ideology get in the way of life-saving health measures and refused to introduce this common-sense policy.
Introducing pill testing doesn’t require a change to law. Police Minister Felix Ellis could allow it to go ahead with the stroke of a pen, and provide the necessary directions to the Police Commissioner.
The Liberals need to look at what’s best for Tasmanians – pill testing saves lives and the Police Minister should allow this evidence-based measure to proceed in Tasmania.