Hypersonic Festival to Offer Onsite Drug Checking as Part of NSW Trial
24 Nov 2025
As part of the trial, attendees can access a free and confidential drug checking service. Festivalgoers can bring small samples of substances they plan to use, which will be tested on-site by trained health professionals. Participants will receive information about the contents and potency of the substances, along with advice on reducing potential risks.
Peer workers will also be available to provide personalised guidance, support, and information about further services. NSW Health notes that this service helps people make informed decisions but does not make drug use safe, and the use of illicit substances remains illegal.
NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said the initiative is designed to help people avoid harmful substances, make safer choices, and reduce serious health risks. “Our focus is on keeping people safe and minimising harm,” she said.
Festival organisers Symbiotic highlighted that safety is a top priority. Co-Director Janette Bishara said, “Providing professional, non-judgemental advice gives people the information they need to make safer choices while at the festival.”
The NSW drug checking trial will run across up to 12 music festivals until the end of February 2026 and will be independently assessed. The trial follows recommendations from the 2024 NSW Drug Summit to implement music festival-based drug testing.
For more information, visit the NSW Health website. Young people seeking advice on staying safe at music festivals can also consult Your Room.
Source: NSW Health
