A mixed methods study of drug use at outdoor music festivals in Western Australia and Victoria

Abstract

This study investigated the nature and extent of drug use associated with Australian music festivals, assessed current and potential future policy and practice strategies aimed at reducing the risk of drug-related harm at festivals, and developed evidence-based recommendations aimed at improving current strategies. Key recommendations included: expanding drug-checking services; ceasing the use of drug detection dogs; removing barriers to seeking medical attention; shifting to a harm reduction policy; and creating more enabling environments for harm reduction.