Summary of presentation given by Dr. A. Wodak at VANDU, April 30th, 2000

Notes by VANDU staff about a presentation given by a doctor about the experience of setting up a safe injection site (SIS) in Sydney, Australia. The doctor gave arguments for establishing an SIS - health benefits; reduction of public nuisance; drug users can avoid arrest and interaction with police; and long-term health care savings. A description of the SIS in Australia was given, in terms of its rooms and rules, and the history of community advocacy, coalition building and campaigning around it.