Knockout Outdoor music festival will be the next major event to host an onsite drug checking service as part of the NSW drug checking trial, further strengthening harm reduction measures for festivalgoers.
The fourth festival to take part in the 12-month NSW drug checking trial, Knockout Outdoor will take place on Saturday 4 October at Sydney Olympic Park.
The free and anonymous drug checking service will allow festival patrons to bring a small sample of substances they intend to consume to be analysed on-site by qualified health staff.
Through rapid evaluation, patrons will be provided with information about what was found in the sample, including potency where possible, in line with available technology. They'll also receive advice on how to reduce risks if they choose to take the substance.
Trained peer workers will be available to provide tailored guidance about the risks, 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.
NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant said the service is intended to help people make informed decisions to reduce drug-related harm but 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 said.
"Our priority is to reduce harm and keep people safe."
Knockout Outdoor organisers said the service was a very welcome addition to its harm minimisation undertakings and had been well received by festival patrons.
"We are committed to creating the safest possible environment for everyone who attends our events.
"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."
The NSW drug checking trial will include up to 12 music festivals through to the end of February next year when it will be independently evaluated.
The trial comes after the NSW Government's Drug Summit concluded in December 2024. The Report on the 2024 New South Wales Drug Summit provided a priority action recommending a trial of music festival-based drug testing.
Further information on the NSW drug checking trial can be found at NSW drug checking trial.
More information for young people around how to keep themselves and their friends safe at music festivals is available on the Your Room website.
