2023-2024 Annual Report Harm Reduction Victoria's Annual Report has landed. Read below by clicking link. Printed Annual Reports will be sent to members who request one at info@hrvic.org.au AR 23-24 Website Download PDF HERE HRVic's Annual Reports are now available to view online. 2022-2023 Annual Report 2022-23 Annual Report HERE Download 2022-2023 Report PDF form 2022-23 Financial Report (pdf) 2021-2022 Annual Report Read 2021-2022 Report 2020-2021 Annual Report Read 2020-2021 Report Annual Reports-from 2014-2021. (Click on cover image to open PDF.) Our Annual Reports from 2014-2021 are a small sample of our impressive growth and the resilience of our community. Our reports provide detailed insight into our achievements and progress over the years.

Feedback or Complaints As your community based organisation, HRVic welcome any feedback, comment and/or complaint. We want to know what we've got right and also when we've missed the mark. Help us to be the best organisation we can be. First Name (optional) Last Name (optional) Email (optional) Feedback and Comments Do you want a response from HRVic? * Required Yes please! I want answers! No. I just needed to vent. Send Thanks for your feedback!

GP & Prescriber LINKS and Forms POLICIES & APPLICATIONS The Department of Health and Human Services has provided a number of additional resources to complement the revised policy. Pharmacotherapy providers are encouraged to use these resources when prescribing or dispensing to people on opioid replacement therapy. All are available from the Downloads section on the Health.Vic website . Some resources are also available in a number of community languages* Pharmacotherapy Policy 2016 Policy for Issuing Schedule 8 Permits Application for Approval as a Prescriber of Pharmacotherapy Notification Of A Drug Dependent Person NATIONAL CLINICAL GUIDELINES (To be used in conjunction with Victorian Policy) NCG for Methadone NCG for Buprenorphine NCG for Use for Naltrexone

Getting On, Getting Older (GoGo) is a new project in development: Targeting the health and social needs of us oldies who inject/use drugs – now and into the future. GOGO Project The Getting On - Getting Older Our Story Harm Reduction Victoria is pleased to introduce you to 'GoGo'. Getting On, Getting Older (GoGo) is a new project in development: Targeting the health and social needs of us oldies who inject/use drugs – now and into the future. GoGo is where the elders of our community can gather to discuss our needs as older people who use drugs and more importantly, to communicate those needs in ways that effect change that has to happen to be sure we are all looked after appropriately as we get older. Are you 50 years young or over and use substances? Fill out this anonymous survey now or Do you work with people Over 50 who use drugs? Fill out this survey now What are you experiencing as an older person who uses drugs? What are your concerns for your future? How can services work with older drug users to maintain a certain standard or to improve their quality of care? If you consider yourself an ‘older’ drug user, we want your input. We want to know what YOU want. We want to know what YOU need or know what you think you WILL need as an older person who uses drugs- who is getting older. Service User Survey (client) Service Provider Survey (worker) "Services for 'ageing drug users' simply do not exist. Why? -because until recently, we didn't get older. It's about figuring out what we need and want and then creating those services for ourselves and ensuring they're available in the future- for all people who enjoy substances" - Sam "I want to be taken seriously when I say I feel pain..and I want to be treated for that pain. I had to take and give my dying friend illicit drugs because their pain was not being managed appropriately while in palliative care-it was devastating." - Anonymous "I want to go to the doctor to and have my health issues and pain taken seriously- not just assume it's the result of my using." - Anonymous Let's Talk About it: Interested in being contacted to be part of the GoGo consultation? Click here to go directly to survey or contact us by filling out this form: > First Name Last Name Email Message Thanks for submitting! Send

WHAT IS HARM REDUCTION? Harm Reduction is a way of promoting health and preventing drug related harm that meets people where they are at. Harm reduction focuses on reducing the risks and adverse health consequences associated with unsafe drug use, in particular HIV and viral hepatitis. Harm reduction programs have been shown to lower risk of HIV and hepatitis transmission for drug users by offering information and assistance in a non-judgmental manner. Important Principles of Harm Reduction Include: A non-judgmental approach that treats every person with dignity, compassion, and respect. Use of evidence-based and cost-effective practices to prevent and reduce drug related harm Active and meaningful participation of drug users and community stakeholders in shaping sensible policies and practices around drug use Focus on enhancing quality of life for individuals and communities, rather than promoting cessation of all drug use Recognition of the determinants of health and the complex interplay of social factors that influence vulnerability to drug-related harm, including poverty, social inequality and discrimination Empowerment of drug users as the primary agents in reducing drug related harms Commitment to defending universal human rights. Harm reduction activities and interventions to improve the health and quality of life for people who use drugs and their communities, include: Peer education- people who use drugs informing and educating people who use drugs Needle and syringe programs (NSPs); Pharmacotherapies (ORT) for drug dependence, including methadone and suboxone; Voluntary testing for HIV, viral hepatitis and other STIs or blood borne infections; Confidential pre and post-test discussion and counselling Access to treatment for HIV and hepatitis C & B and other STIs Provision of primary health care including wound care and vein care Overdose prevention activities, including peer distribution of Naloxone and first aid training; Referral to drug treatment programs as requested. Some other forms of Harm Reduction include: Seatbelts in vehicles Cancer Screening Wearing bicycle helmets Using condoms Sun screen and sun protection Nicotine patches/gum ALL IN A NAME... As our name suggests (Harm Reduction Victoria), HARM REDUCTION is our stock and trade and all the information on our website is based on a ‘harm reduction’ approach to drug use. ‘Harm reduction’ recognizes that abstinence (i.e. quitting drugs altogether) isn’t realistic or possible for everyone. However, this should not disqualify drug users from the same chances and choices about health care as non-users. By learning about drugs and ways to reduce the harms associated with drug use, you are empowering yourself to make informed choices. HRVic’s website provides you with non-judgmental, accurate, up to date information so that you can make healthy choices for yourself . Rather than re-inventing the wheel, we have included links to other excellent websites, and to other drug user organisations, for all the information you need to stay safe. HARM REDUCTION VS HARM MINIMISATION Aren't they the same thing? In a word? No. Since 1985 Australia’s documented drug strategy has aimed to address the harmful use of licit drugs (tobacco, alcohol and pharmaceutical drugs) , illicit drugs (heroin, cannabis, cocaine and amphetamine-type stimulants) and other psychoactive substances (e.g. inhalants) , using a harm minimisation approach. The principle of ‘harm minimisation’ provides the overarching framework for drug policy in Australia [1, 2] . There are multiple ways to minimise the harms to individuals and communities from drug use – reflecting this, the framework of harm minimisation encompasses the three pillars of demand reduction , harm reduction , and supply reduction [3] . Harm minimisation seeks a balance between these elements, and is regarded as an evidence-based and pragmatic approach [4] . This approach has facilitated collaboration across health, law enforcement and education, as well as partnerships between governments and with non-government agencies and community stakeholders. Ritter A, Lancaster K, Grech K, Reuter P (2011) Monograph No. 21: An assessment of illicit drug policy in Australia (1985-2010): Themes and trends. Sydney: National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre Ritter A, Lancaster K (2013) Policy models and influences on policy processes. In: Ritter A, Hamilton M, King T, eds. Drug Use in Australian Society. South Melbourne: Oxford University Press Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy (2011) National Drug Strategy 2010-2015: A framework for action on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia Ritter A, Cameron J (2006) A review of the efficacy and effectiveness of harm reduction strategies for alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs. Drug and Alcohol Review;25:611-624

DXM Dextromethorphan APPEARANCE Sold in syrup, tablet, spray, & lozenge forms. In its pure form, dextromethorphan occurs as a white powder ADMINISTRATION Ingested orally, Inhaled nasally DURATION Total: 4-6 hours DESCRIPTION Dextromethorphan hydrobromide (‘DXM’ or ‘DM’) which, when taken at doses exceeding the recommended therapeutic range, becomes a powerful dissociative drug with psychedelic properties. Part of the morphinan class of substances, DXM has sedative, dissociative, and stimulant properties (at higher doses). Dissociatives are mostly NMDA receptor antagonists, these substances are hallucinogenic but different than psychedelics. As per the name, these substances create a distance between the user and reality. It is also the cough suppressant in many overthe-counter (‘OTC’) cold and cough medicines especially in those with ‘DM’ or ‘Tuss’ in their names. Dextromethorphan has numerous other uses in medicine, ranging from pain relief (as either the primary analgesic, or an opioid potentiator) and psychological applications to the treatment of dependence. DXM is not to be confused with Dextrorphan or Dexamethasone. Sold in syrup, tablet, spray, & lozenge forms. In its pure form, dextromethorphan occurs as a white powder. Examples include Robitussin, NyQuil, Dimetapp, & Vicks. It is IMPORTANT to make sure DXM is the only active ingredient in the preparation. EFFECTS THE FIRST PLATEAU(1.5-2.5mg/kg): mild stimulant effect with a little bit of a buzz, / has been compared to MDA THE SECOND PLATEAU(2.5-7.5mg/kg): more intoxicating, been compared to being drunk & stoned at the same time THE THIRD PLATEAU(7.5-15mg/kg): is dissociative, like a lower dose of ketamine. THE FOURTH PLATEAU(15-20mg/kg): fully dissociative like a higher dose of ketamine. You should AVOID higher plateau doses unless you have someone with you who can take care of you in case you get sick or freak out. It happens on DXM. Many things can happen unexpectedly on upper plateaus, such as spontaneous memory recall, complex delusions, hallucinations, out-of-body experiences, near-death experiences, and perceived contact with spiritual or alien entities. You need a strong foundation of support and experience to navigate this space. *WARNING: Death has occurred in the 25mg/kg range. PHYSICAL • Urinary Retention • Increased Heart Rate • Increased Blood Pressure • Sweating • Itchiness • Lethargy • Slurred Speech • Red/Blotchy Skin Rashes • Hyperactivity • Nystagmus (Rapid Eye Movement) • Difficulty Communicating • Nausea/Dizziness • Allergic-Like Responses EMOTIONAL • Euphoria • Happiness / Mood Lift PSYCHOLOGICAL • Visual / Auditory hallucinations • Dissociation • Reduced or increased anxiety • Introspection • Music enhancement • Confusion • Depression/fatigue • Talkative • Short term memory loss or confusion • Disorientation • Paranoia • Altered time perception It is Not recomendded that you use DXM if you have: Respiratory (breathing) issues, Liver issues, Heart issues. LONG TERM EFFECTS The toxicity and long-term health effects of recreational DXM use in humans has not been studied in any scientific context and the exact toxic dosage is unknown.illness, but it is important to be aware of this possibility. Many chronic users report significant issues with memory, attention, and mood that persist for many months after stopping usage. SAFER USING: Harm Reduction Tips • AVOID using any preparation of DXM that has ANY other active ingredients, as they can make you sick and/or dead. • General rule of thumb for DXM : 1 plateau/week. In other words, If you take a Third Plateau Dose, wait 3 weeks before using again. If you use a Second Plateau dose, wait 2 weeks before using again. • Try to use in comfortable environments with people you trust to look out for you • Watch out what you are mixing DXM with, as mixing with certain drugs can cause serotonin syndrome, or Ataxia, • Some people can’t use DXM due to a genetic mutation in an important enzyme. Do your research.

YOSHI Celebrating Yoshi Tue, 24 June North Ryde Longest serving volunteer on the DanceWize team, extremely valued peer and community member and true contributor to progress in harm reduction policies and initiatives, Yoshi Levitch has passed away at the age of 43. He will be dearly missed, but also celebrated and remembered for his impact. Details

💊 We need your voice! Help shape Victoria’s new drug checking service by joining our Service User Reference Group (SURG). Share your experiences, give feedback, and make sure drug checking meets the needs of our community. Encrypted Expression of Interest form here: We’re looking for people with lived experience to help us make drug checking services in Victoria the best they can be. The new 'Victorian Pill Testing Service' is being run by YSAS, The Loop Australia and Harm Reduction Victoria, with support from the Victorian Department of Health. It’s part of an 18-month trial, offering drug checking at events (mobile) and at our fixed site in Brunswick St. We’re forming a Service User Reference Group (SURG) to make sure the service reflects the needs and voices of the community. The group will meet regularly with support from Harm Reduction Victoria staff and community members. What you’ll do in the group: Share your feedback on how drug checking is working so far – at events and at the fixed site Advise on how we can improve the design, feel and overall experience of the service Look at service data and give input into quality improvement Extra opportunities for members: Bring community perspectives into broader conversations about drug checking policy and planning in Victoria Meet and ask questions of the service providers and other key stakeholders Interested? Fill out this encrypted Expression of Interest form by OCTOBER 7th to apply. (EXTENDED DATE!). CLICK ON the above QR CODE on this device OR USE ANOTHER DEVICE to register.

Harm Reduction Victoria event listings Event at HRVic International Overdose Awareness Day (AUG 31) On FRIDAY 29th AUGUST, We'd love you to join us to celebrate the lives of our friends and family we've lost with some training, followed by a feed and a movie! Open for everyone to attend, At 4pm we'll be doing Overdose RECOGNITION and RESPONSE Training- including Overdose for Amphetamine type substances and Overdose for Opioids with naloxone administration. Rarely does overdose training include drugs other than opioids but not all overdoses look like someones asleep! How do you recognise an 'uppers' overdose?? COME FIND OUT!! Then at 6pm we'll have a hot, free dinner put on by the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and cozy up to watch an old cult movie classic- "Smoke 'em if you got 'em!" at 7pm. See you Friday! If you have any questions, call 93291500. YOSHI Remembering one of our own... Stay Up to Date Here HRVic Events International Drug Users Day HRVic Scavenger Hunt and Community Dinner Fri, 07 Nov Brunswick More info Free Event Int. Overdose Awareness Day Event Fri, 29 Aug Brunswick More info Free Event Registrations Closed In Celebration of Yoshi Fri, 01 Aug Welshmans Reef More info Registration Closed Registrations Closed HRVic Support. Dont Punish. TRIVIA NIGHT Thu, 26 June Online and At HRVic Office More info Registration Closed Registrations Closed Celebrating Yoshi Tue, 24 June North Ryde More info Registration Closed Multiple Dates 'Fixed Ideas'- Community Consultation on the Drug Checking Fixed Site service Fri, 28 Feb Brunswick More info Registration Closed Registrations Closed Drug Checking in Victoria - Community Info Sesh Thu, 20 Feb Brunswick More info Registration Closed Sold Out International Drug Users Day 2024- Back in The Day... Fri, 01 Nov Brunswick More info Sold Out Registrations Closed HRVic Community Dinner - Grill n Chill Cookout- 05 July 2024 Fri, 05 July Brunswick More info Registration Closed "CHECK,Please!" - Mon, 25 Mar Zoom More info Free Event Registrations Closed FREE Webcast. Entheo Genesis Australis presents Garden States Webcast - Cubensis Rising: Wed, 24 Jan https://www.youtube.com/live/JTrg1yWiX40?si More info Sold Out SAVE THE DATE: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2023 Wed, 06 Dec Brunswick More info Free Event International Overdose Awareness Day @ HRVic HQ Thu, 31 Aug Brunswick More info Free Event Registrations Closed ONLINE EVENT: AIVL CONSUMERS FORUM: ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT CHANGES TO OPIOID DEPENDENCE MEDICATIONS ANSWERED Fri, 30 June AIVL CONSUMERS FORUM: ODT FEE CHANGES AUS More info Registration Closed Registrations Closed Support Don't Punish Day | HR23 Post Conference Summary Gathering Mon, 26 June HRVic More info Sold Out Registrations Closed HRVic's Drug Law ReforUm-Put The 'U' In Drug Law Reform! Fri, 14 Oct Coming Soon More info Registration Closed

The aim of the Peer Network Program© is to reduce the spread of hepatitis C and other blood borne viruses like HIV and hepatitis B. The plan is to recruit, train and support Peer Networkers© to distribute needles and syringes to their friends and associates as well as providing education about safer drug use and ‘modelling’ safer injecting practices. By increasing access to sterile needles/syringes and passing on important information and education related to reducing the harms of injecting drugs. In Melbourne, we have excellent Needle Syringe Programs (NSPs), but when you look closely at NSP statistics, a number of groups including young people who inject and particularly young women, people from CALD backgrounds and aboriginal injectors are under-represented. These are exactly the groups of people who inject that the Peer Network Program© seek to recruit as ‘peer networkers’. We know that peer education and distribution is already happening – despite the fact that it is technically illegal in Victoria to give a fit* to someone else unless you are authorised to do so. Even the regular stat sheet that you fill out every time you go into an NSP asks how many other people you are picking up for! HRVic believes a change in legislation is long overdue! Once recruited, the peer networkers will attend a comprehensive training program. On completion of training they will be registered as HRVic volunteers and authorised Needle Syringe Program (NSP) Outreach Workers. *fit= outfit ie. syringe/needle

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Updates on Frankston Healthcare clinic for patients and Pharmacotherapy consumers. IMPORTANT NOTICE: FRANKSTON HEALTHCARE CLINIC PATIENTS: JOIN HRVIC HRVic is a community organisation. It is peer led- meaning it is run and governed by people with lived and current living experience of drug use who live in Victoria. Stay Up to date with new information and what's happening for our community around pharmacotherapy and drug law reform. Join HRVic