11/05/2026
Pill testing is often talked about, debated, and sometimes misunderstood. But at its core, the work is about som**hing very simple: reducing harm.
David, Emergency Consultant with , has been involved in drug checking services in the ACT for years, both at festivals and in the community, in his other role at CanTEST.
'We know there are very few “moral” arguments that can change the relationship people have with illicit drugs.'
'It’s not about preaching; it’s about supporting a service that makes it less likely for people to be harmed by drugs.'
And it’s not just about the technology.
'The analysis may be the high-tech, high-profile part, but the conversations and individual contextualisation is where the magic happens.'
From David’s perspective as an emergency clinician, the impact is clear.
'Our data shows people overwhelmingly change their behaviours to doing som**hing less likely to require my services.'
For David, this work is deeply personal.
'Canberra is my community, and because I can do more than my day job, I should.'
💬 This is a topic many people have strong views on. We’re curious, what are your thoughts on pill testing?
