Automatic syringe dispenser divides Redfern

Opinions are divided in Redfern over a new automatic syringe dispensing machine (ADM) in the neighbourhood’s main street.

The ADM, located outside the Redfern Health Centre at 103 Redfern St, was established by the Sydney Local Health District this month, and will be in place for at least 12 months, subject to review.

City of Sydney Councillor Irene Doutney says the initiative has polarised the inner city suburb, exacerbating tensions between the area’s traditional working class/housing commission residents and a newer, cashed-up demographic.

“Unfortunately it seems to have become a focal point for division,” said Ms Doutney. “I’m concerned that there’s a growing divide between those living north of Redfern St and those living south of it.”

The Greens councillor said while drug use could be problematic in Redfern, newer residents should understand the issues of the area.

“I’d like to hope people moving to Redfern understand that people [with injectable drug addictions] need access to clean syringes. It’s about keeping people alive, because they can and do overcome these things and go on to have fulfilling, productive lives.

“But I do understand that when someone has spent a lot of money setting up a new home, they don’t want syringes on their doorstep.”

Ms Dountey expressed hope that after 12 months, the community would have a clearer consensus on the ADM.

However some wealthy residents, such as Channel Nine/2GB identity Ben Fordham, seem reluctant to give the ADM a chance.

Mr Fordham – who moved to Redfern in 2010 – has railed against the ADM on at least four separate occasions on 2GB, launching verbal broadsides at Sydney Local Health District officials.

Mr Fordham did not respond to requests for comment for this story.

Local business owner Gary Prebble from the Pitt St Diner, around the corner from the ADM, took a more balanced approach.

“It’s a tricky one. I don’t feel comfortable having it nearby but I know if someone’s addicted, they need to use clean syringes,” said Mr Prebble.

“Ultimately, I’d like to see more resources put into preventing people from turning to drugs in the first place … more done to combat mental illness and depression.”

Geoff Turnbull, spokesperson for Redfern Eveleigh Darlington Waterloo Watch (REDwatch), said the group did not have a strong position on the ADM, but urged greater cooperation between State Government bodies to combat the scourge of used syringes.

“When used syringes are dumped on public housing land, there’s a lack of clarity about who’s authorised to collect them – the Department of Health or the Department of Housing,” said Mr Turnbull.

The Sydney Local Health District assured local residents there were ample syringe disposal facilities.

Kate Reakes, manager of the District Harm Minimisation Program, said: “A sharps waste disposal bin is located next to the ADM.
Another sharps waste disposal bin is located behind the … health centre on Turner St.”

Ms Reakes said the ADM was installed due to unacceptably high local rates of HIV and hepatitis.

“In Redfern-Waterloo … HIV rates among injecting drugs users are three times the national rate. Hepatitis C rates are 10 per cent higher than anywhere else in Australia.”

She said the ADM would be evaluated by public health experts from the University of Sydney, in conjunction with local community members.