About the Needle and Syringe Program

The Victorian Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) is a public health initiative that aims to minimise the spread of blood-borne viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B and C among people who inject drugs and into the wider community.

The program began in 1987 and operates through a range of different service providers, including:

  • funded NSPs whose primary function is to provide a full suite of NSP services, including harm reduction information, advice and referrals
  • community health services
  • hospital accident and emergency units
  • municipal councils
  • drug treatment agencies
  • youth organisations
  • participating pharmacies.

For information on the safe retrieval and disposal of needles and syringes, and contact details of NSP providers, call 1300 365 482.

Approved NSP providers can now supply free naloxone to consumers, their families, carers and supporters through Victoria’s Take Home Naloxone program.

Purpose of the Needle and Syringe Program

Sharing a used needle or other injecting equipment is one of the most common ways of transmitting blood-borne viruses such as HIV and hepatitis B and C.

In Australia, NSPs have prevented thousands of cases of infection among people who inject drugs and, in turn, protected the wider community.

Needle and Syringe Program services in Victoria

There are different types of NSP service delivery in Victoria, including:

  • fixed site
  • mobile services
  • disposal hotline
  • outreach
  • outreach foot patrol.

Needle and Syringe Program outlets in Victoria

Needle and Syringe Program locations are situated across Victoria.