The Harm Reduction program works with people who are using substances which have the potential for overdose related harm.
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Victoria: Call Directline 1800 888 236 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Tasmania: Call Alcohol Drug Information Service (ADIS) 1800 250 015 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Every life has value, and every person deserves care that meets them where they are. That’s the principle behind harm reduction and overdose prevention in Victoria: a compassionate, evidence-based approach designed to keep people safe, informed, and connected. Rather than focusing solely on abstinence, harm reduction recognises that drug use is a complex part of society, and that support should aim to minimise harm, prevent overdose, and protect communities.
At Uniting Vic.Tas, our harm reduction program provides compassionate support, practical knowledge, and evidence- based strategies to reduce harm related to substance use. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, a family member, or friend, our program works alongside people to decrease the risk of drug-related overdose and associated harms.
Below, you’ll find an overview of why drug overdose prevention matters in Victoria and the services Uniting provides to support individuals, families, and communities.
We provide tailored education and support to individuals, families, and communities affected by drug and alcohol use. Our services are non-judgmental, confidential, and designed to meet each person’s unique needs.
For those using opioids, we can help explore pharmacotherapy options and connect you with qualified prescribers who can provide appropriate medical support. We meet people where they are through our outreach services, providing support directly in the community within our service area.
Uniting also offers both individual and group counselling for people impacted by alcohol and drug use. Our trained professional counsellors create a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences and develop coping strategies.
All our services are delivered with respect, compassion, and without judgment. We believe every person deserves support and the opportunity to reduce harm in their lives, regardless of where they are in their journey.
We work with individuals, families, and other service providers to raise awareness and reduce the risk of fatal and non fatal overdoses in the community. We work with people aged 16 years and above.
We can provide you with education and training on preventing overdose and can assist you to access and learn to use take-home Naloxone, which is highly effective in reversing opioid overdoses.
Often known as an NSP or 'needle exchange', our Needle and Syringe Program aims to reduce the transmission of blood-borne viruses that can result from sharing injecting equipment. You can safely access sterile equipment at no charge from our Coburg location.
Available items include:
Our specialist Overdose Prevention staff provide comprehensive Naloxone training for people who
use substances, their families, and support networks. We also deliver professional training sessions for workplace and community settings.
Naloxone is available free of charge to the public through our NSP locations in Coburg and Ballarat. Along with receiving Naloxone, you'll be trained in how to recognise the signs of an opioid overdose and respond effectively in an emergency situation.
You can access harm reduction and overdose prevention services by:
All services are confidential, and interpreters are available for non-English speakers.
Services are available across metropolitan Melbourne and Ballarat, Victoria.
Harm reduction is a practical and compassionate approach that aims to minimise the health, social, and legal risks associated with drug use — without requiring people to stop using entirely. It acknowledges that while drug use carries risks, individuals can make safer choices when they have access to information, resources, and support.
Examples of harm reduction in action include:
In Victoria, the risk of drug overdose remains a serious public health issue. According to the Coroners Court of Victoria, more than 500 people died from overdose in 2023. Emerging substances, including synthetic opioids and stimulants, have added further complexity and danger to the drug landscape.
Overdose prevention saves lives, but it also strengthens communities. By increasing public understanding, providing access to naloxone (a fast-acting opioid reversal medication), and teaching people how to respond in an emergency, Victoria’s harm reduction services make a tangible difference every day.
Community training, awareness, and accessible services are key to turning the tide, meaning that anyone, anywhere, can respond confidently in a life-threatening situation.
No. Harm reduction focuses on reducing risks and promoting safety, while addiction treatment supports people who want to reduce or stop their drug use. Learn more about our other Alcohol & Other Drug services.
Naloxone (brand names Prenoxad, Nyxoid) is an easy to administer drug that can temporarily reverse opioid overdose.
Naloxone blocks the effects of opioids, quickly restoring normal breathing during an overdose. It’s safe, effective, and easy to use.
Yes. Free sterile equipment is available through Uniting’s Needle and Syringe Program in Coburg.
Uniting’s harm reduction and overdose prevention programs are open to anyone in Victoria, including people who use drugs, family members, carers, and community organisations. Services are inclusive, culturally safe, and respectful of every individual’s background and circumstances.
Yes. Uniting provides workshops and training sessions for workplace and community organisations.
Absolutely. All Uniting Vic.Tas harm reduction services are confidential, respectful, and non-judgmental.
Learning more about harm reduction and drug overdose prevention can empower individuals and communities to respond with knowledge and care. Uniting offers a range of educational materials to help people stay informed and connected.
Uniting Vic.Tas
We’re here for you
To find out more about our harm reduction and overdose prevention programs, contact our team today. Call 1800 700 514 for Melbourne Metro or 03 5332 1286 for Ballarat.
For a free interpreter for a different language please call 1800 316 934.
