- Published:
- Monday 1 June 2026 at 12:00 pm
Naloxone saves lives and Labor is rolling dispensing machines out across Victoria.
Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today visited The Alfred where the first machine has now been installed.
The machines deliver free, accessible and lifesaving overdose medication at the push of a button.
The machines will be stocked with a nasal spray, which can be administered by anyone – simply by following the instructions included in the packaging.
Operating 24/7 they mean any Victorian can intervene to save a life if they witness or experience an overdose.
Naloxone is a safe, lifesaving medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, including from heroin, prescription opioids and synthetic opioids.
Like CPR, EpiPens, or asthma inhalers, naloxone is a first aid tool used in emergencies.
By making it more accessible, more people can respond quickly in an overdose situation, which can save lives.
A further nine machines will be installed over the coming weeks in:
- Bendigo Community Health Services
- Sunshine Hospital
- Gippsland Lakes Complete Health, Lakes Entrance
- Your Community Health, East Reservoir
- Primary Care Connect, Shepparton
- Latrobe Community Health Service, Morwell
- Ballarat Community Health
- Sunraysia Community Health Service, Mildura
- Gateway Health, Wangaratta
The remaining 10 machines will be installed in: Melbourne, Yarra, Greater Geelong, Frankston, Maribyrnong, Greater Dandenong and Bass Coast – with specific locations to be announced soon.
Opioid overdoses are the leading cause of drug-related deaths in Victoria, claiming almost 400 lives each year.
The dispensing machines are being delivered as part of the Labor Government’s $95.1 million Statewide Action Plan.
Victoria’s Take-Home Naloxone program was also expanded last year to make the lifesaving drug easier to access.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt
“Every overdose is a tragedy that no loved one should ever have to experience.”
“That’s why we are making Naloxone more accessible – to help save lives and drive down the impact of illicit drugs.”(opens in a new window)
Quote attributable to Member for Southern Metropolitan Region John Berger
“By making Naloxone more accessible – we’re making sure more Victorians can get lifesaving care.”
Quote attributable to Member for Southern Metropolitan Region Ryan Batchelor
“Naloxone vending machines will make a difference right across Victoria – we are delivering more care where it is needed.”
Quote attributable to Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor
“We’re investing in proven, life‑saving measures that reduce harm – just like this new Naloxone vending machine at The Alfred.”