International Overdose Awareness Day 2026

International Overdose Awareness Day 2026

Join us at Queensland Parliament House on Monday 31 August 2026 as we mark the 25th anniversary of International Overdose Awareness Day.

Hosted by QuIVAA, QuIHN and the Queensland Mental Health Commission, the event brings together people with lived and living experience, families, peer workers, service providers, researchers, advocates and government representatives to remember those lost to overdose, support those affected by overdose, and recognise the work being done to prevent overdose-related harm.

The morning will include the unveiling of the Queensland Community Overdose Blanket. Created by community members from across Queensland, the blanket brings together individual pieces that reflect stories of loss, survival, remembrance and hope. Connected by thread, it represents the many lives, experiences and communities touched by overdose.

The event will also include the premiere of a short documentary exploring the human impact of the overdose crisis through the voices of people living with its consequences every day. Families, friends, peer workers and health professionals share their experiences of loss, care, resilience and the importance of reducing stigma.

The program will feature speakers with lived and living experience alongside representatives from the health, community and government sectors. It provides an opportunity to reflect, learn and acknowledge the role we all play in preventing overdose and supporting our communities.