Free overdose fix test at BCHS

BENDIGO Community Health Services’ (BCHS) Hargreaves Street site has been chosen as one of 20 locations around Victoria to trial a free Naloxone dispensing machine.

Naloxone in nasal spray form temporarily reverses the effects of heroin, synthetic opioid and prescription opioid (fentanyl and morphine for example) overdoses by helping the person affected to breathe again.

It is considered safe, non-addictive and non-intoxicating, and has zero side effects, with a second dose able to be administered if necessary.

The dispensing machine will be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days per week.

BCHS deputy operations manager (alcohol and drugs services) Lisa Walklate said the organisation’s inclusion in the trial isn’t an indication that anything is wrong in Bendigo – it’s more an opportunity to provide stigma-free access to a life-saving medication.

“Having the ability to discreetly access Naloxone through a vending machine will empower anyone in the community to have this overdose reversal tool easily in their possession,” she said.

“For years now we have been advocating for anyone who uses opioids and opioid-based medication, and their families and friends, to have it on hand for emergencies.

“It’s a practical and proven way to reduce the harms associated with drug use as it really can mean the difference between life and death, especially as there’s no quality control in ‘recreational’ drug manufacturing.

“This trial is a good thing for Bendigo, it’s good for Victoria and it will save lives.”

The dispensing machine trial, which will run until the end of June next year, was announced in 2024 as part of the state government’s $95.1m action plan to reduce drug harm across the state.