Queensland to introduce pill testing at Rabbits Eat Lettuce festival

The festival will mark the start of the state's pill testing rollout, which aims to reduce the risks and harms associated with illicit drug use.

Pill testing trials have been conducted at Groovin the Moo festival in the ACT, and will now be introduced in Queensland Source: Getty / Tracey Nearmy

The top line: Pill testing will be legally available in Queensland for the first time at the Rabbits Eat Lettuce festival from 28 March - 1 April.

The bigger picture: The festival is the first site in QLD's pill testing rollout, which was announced in 2023.

Pill testing allows people with illicit drugs to get the substances tested and find out what's actually in them.

Pill testing aims to identify contaminated drugs and reduce risks associated with drug use.

The key quote: "This marks an important milestone in the ongoing efforts of Queensland to reduce drug-related harms, and we know that the patrons of the festival and their families and friends will greatly appreciate this vital public health service being available." - Stepj Tzanetis, Pill Testing Australia executive officer.

What else to know: The ACT established a fixed pill testing site in Canberra in 2022 after successful trials at festivals. It is the only other state or territory with pill testing.

What happens now: Fixed sites are also set to be introduced in Queensland later this year.

Read more: Debbie's son overdosed. She thinks this state's push for drug testing is a 'no brainer'