Ryan BATCHELOR (Southern Metropolitan) (10:01): Opioid overdose is a prominent cause of drug-related death in Victoria, and recently I had the opportunity to join Minister Stitt, Mr Berger and the member for Albert Park at the Alfred for the launch of Victoria’s first naloxone vending machine. Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose within minutes by blocking the opioid receptors in the brain. It is a non-addictive, non-intoxicating substance that cannot be misused. The vending machine looks and works like every other vending machine we have ever used. You can dispense a naloxone packet containing two nasal sprays with a single dose each and clear instructions on how to use in an emergency. Part of Labor’s statewide action plan to reduce drug harm will trial 20 machines, like the one at the Alfred, across Victoria – 10 in Melbourne and 10 in regional Victoria. It is installed just outside the emergency department at the Alfred. One has been installed at the Sunshine Mental Health and Wellbeing Centre at the Sunshine Hospital. I was there back at the Alfred on Sunday morning. I went past the machine and saw that it was being well used, and I think the quick uptake of this life-saving substance will do wonders to stop opioid overdose. Opioid overdose can affect anyone – those taking prescribed medications, people using illicit drugs or those who unknowingly take substances containing opioids. Carrying naloxone means that anyone can act in an emergency to save a life.