Broome mum demands action after discovering 60 needles on streets and playgrounds

A Western Australian mother is raising alarm after discovering almost 60 discarded syringes in the streets of Broome, with some even found in children’s playgrounds. The state government distributes clean syringe packs, called Fitpacks, to drug users to reduce infection rates from the sharing of dirty needles. Natalie Kennedy, a mother of two, has uncovered 59 needles in various locations across Broome, including a playground near her home. Concerned by the high number of needles, Kennedy now carries a bucket to clean up the streets when she walks with her children. She believes the current approach prioritizes the safety of drug users over the community’s well-being and is calling for more robust support services and interventions in the area. Recently, a student at Roebuck Primary School was pricked by a needle found in the playground, prompting calls for a reevaluation of the program from the Broome Shire Council. While retractable needles have been suggested as an alternative, the Department of Health argues they may increase virus transmission among injectable drug users. Premier Roger Cook emphasizes the importance of addressing the issue and implementing necessary changes.