Hello everyone. Yesterday, I was a guest at Independent NSW MLA Alex Greenwich and Greens’ NSW MLA Cate Faehrmann's “Beyond the War on Drugs” forum in Sydney. Drug and harm reduction experts came together, and it was an honour to be there as a recognised expert in this area. I bring Daniel with me to events like these, for the work I do to honour his life and memory. 

At the forum, we acknowledged that pill testing is an obvious first step if we're going to save lives. But what comes next? The zero tolerance, tough on crimes approach has failed, and it's costing people their lives. 

Amidst the debate, one thing people discussed was this weekend's NSW state election. It's going to be a close call, with polling at 50/50 for Labor and the Coalition. We could end up with a hung parliament. 

Whatever your political persuasion, if you're reading this it is because you support pill testing. If you live in NSW, can I ask you one thing?

Vote for pill testing. 

Vote for a candidate that is ready to tackle this crisis. Vote for someone that sees this is a health problem, a youth problem - not a criminal justice problem.  The Liberals oppose pill testing. Labour haven't taken it off the table, and have promised to hold a drug summit if elected. The Greens support pill testing, as do many independent MPs like Alex Greenwich and the minor parties.

So please, if you've decided on who you will vote for, double check their stance on pill testing before you get to the ballot box.  

Thank you.