Supporting Safer Lives Through Evidence‑Based Policy and Practice
Each year on 7 May, International Harm Reduction Day calls attention to the importance of reducing stigma and advancing approaches that support the health, dignity and rights of people who use drugs.
Harm reduction focuses on practical, evidence‑based strategies that minimise the negative impacts associated with drug use. This includes policies, programs and places – such as Needle and Syringe Programs and Drug Checking Services – that enable people to live safer, healthier lives.
Central to harm reduction is respect: recognising the autonomy of people who use drugs and supporting positive change without judgement.
International Harm Reduction Day also highlights the critical role of public health‑led responses. When policies and programs are grounded in evidence, they reduce preventable harm, save lives and strengthen communities. Harm reduction empowers individuals by prioritising wellbeing, human rights and informed choice.
Harm reduction resources
If you’re looking to learn more or share practical, accessible information, the following resources are a great place to start:
Insight’s Check Tools include clear, accessible “Ways to Reduce Harm” resources for alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, opioids, benzodiazepines, ketamine and GHB:
https://lnkd.in/gVZTK5u5
Alcohol and Drug Foundation – Harm Reduction Strategies:
https://lnkd.in/gAXkjb6m
Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia (DASSA) – Take Home Naloxone (THN) Program:
https://lnkd.in/gfjwTyse
Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL):
https://aivl.org.au/
South Australian Needle and Syringe Programs:
https://lnkd.in/gagWsaaU
On International Harm Reduction Day, we reaffirm the importance of compassion, evidence and respect — and the role these play in creating healthier, safer and more inclusive communities.