The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) Queensland Branch has expressed ongoing concern about recent legislative changes banning drug checking services across Queensland. 

Prof Brett Emmerson AM, Chair of the RANZCP Queensland Branch, emphasised that drug checking services help reach vulnerable Queenslanders with substance use disorders who might otherwise never connect with health or mental health services and are at risk of falling through the gaps. 

"These services meet people where they are in the community, offering crucial early intervention through screening and pathways to treatment from addiction professionals before a crisis occurs," Prof Emmerson said. 

"We know illicit drug use is unsafe, but we also know that shame and stigma associated with it stop many people from seeking help for addiction and mental health problems. 

"These services break down those barriers by treating people with dignity and respect while keeping them safe. 

Research shows that 30-50% of people with substance use disorders have co-occurring mental health conditions. Drug checking services help bridge this treatment gap by creating non-judgmental spaces where vulnerable individuals can access support.  

The Penington Institute found that in 2023, Queensland recorded 310 unintended drug deaths, exceeding the road toll. The University of Queensland Final Report: Evaluation of Queensland Drug Checking Services 2025 identified that such services played a significant role in the continuum of services in the state. They provided a ‘safe space’ for clients to discuss their alcohol and drug use, and linked clients to additional services. 

"People with addiction issues require compassionate, evidence-based responses,” Prof Emmerson said. 

"We urge the Queensland Government to reconsider this decision and reverse the ban on these vital services that connect people to the help they need." 

The RANZCP Queensland Branch calls for: 

• Reversal of legislation banning drug checking services
• Meaningful consultation with health experts and stakeholders
• Reinstatement of funding for harm reduction services.

For media inquiries, please contact: Dishi Gahlowt on +61 437 315 911 or email media@ranzcp.org  

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is a membership organisation that prepares medical specialists in the field of psychiatry, supports and enhances clinical practice, advocates for people affected by mental illness and advises governments and other groups on mental health care. For information about our work, our members or our history, visit www.ranzcp.org. 

For all other expert mental health information visit Your Health in Mind, the RANZCP’s consumer health information website. 

In Australia: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au or the Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au. 

In New Zealand: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline NZ on 0800 543 354 or www.lifeline.org.nz or the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865 or www.lifeline.org.nz/suicide-prevention.