To operate an NSP, government and non-government organisations require an NSP approval under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2014 (external site) and the Medicines and Poisons Regulations 2016 (external site)
Both government and non-government organisations can operate an NSP. Any organisation that operates an NSP must meet specific requirements as stated in the Medicines and Poisons Regulations 2016 and be approved by the Chief Executive Officer of the WA Department of Health.
Pharmacy NSP
All Western Australian pharmacies are approved to retail packaged needles and syringes (Fitpack ® and Fitstick ®) under the Pharmacy Registration Board of WA’s approval.
Should a pharmacy want to retail single needles and syringes accompanied by a disposal container, the pharmacy is required to apply for an NSP approval to do so.
Obtaining an NSP approval
- Nominate an NSP coordinator. Read about who can be a needle and syringe program (NSP) coordinator and the duties of the position.
- Complete an Application Form for approval of a Needle and Syringe Program (Word 698KB)
- Develop guidelines to establish and operate a needle and syringe program (NSP) - contact the Sexual Health and Blood-borne Virus Program for assistance with this
- Submit these documents to the Sexual Health and Blood-borne Virus Program.
More information
More information can be found in the Needle and Syringe Program Guidelines – see Sexual Health and Blood-borne Viruses for NSP related guidelines.
Contact:
Senior Policy Officer (NSP)
Sexual Health and Blood-borne Virus Program
Department of Health, Western Australia
PO Box 8172
PERTH BUSINESS CENTRE WA 6849
Phone: 9222 2355
Email: NSP@health.wa.gov.au