Needle and syringe program

The program

The Tasmanian Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) works to minimise the spread of blood-borne viruses HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B and C among injecting drug users and to the wider community. It operates through:

• community health services
• community service organisations
• neighbourhood and community houses
• Tasmanian Aboriginal health services
• regional hospitals
• councils
• youth organisations
• pharmacies.

Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) outlets

Primary NSPs

Primary NSPs provide a wide range of injecting equipment to injecting drug users. They also:

• provide health information and education
• make referrals
• liaise with local agencies such as police, local government, health, drug treatment and welfare agencies
• distribute sharps disposal containers, alcohol swabs, pill filters, and sterile water for injection
• provide services for the appropriate disposal of used injecting equipment.
• provide free take-home naloxone (anti-overdose medication) to people at risk of opioid-related overdose.

Download location details of primary outlets in the North, South and North West

Secondary NSPs

Secondary NSPs are programs operating within existing organisations, such as community health centres, regional hospitals and community houses. They:

• distribute fit packs containing 1, 3 and 5ml syringes
• may provide services for the appropriate disposal of used injecting equipment
• make referrals.

Download location details of secondary outlets in the North, South and North West

Community Pharmacy NSPs

• Provide fit packs containing 1, 3 and 5ml syringes for a fee.

Download location details of community pharmacies in the North, South and North West

Vending machines

• Provide fit packs containing 1, 3 and 5ml syringes for a fee.

Download location details across Tasmania