Shire continues syringe collection service through 2026–27

Published on 24 September 2026

The Shire of Broome will continue its syringe collection service and the installation, maintenance and servicing of public sharps disposal bins across Broome throughout 2026/27.

The services were established through funding by the Mental Health Commission, following Shire advocacy in response to community concerns about discarded needles and syringes in public areas.

The funding enables the Shire to provide a dedicated resource to undertake regular inspections and collection of discarded needles and syringes from public areas, helping reduce needle litter and improve safety across the community.

The Shire continues to advocate on this important community issue, with officers working alongside Kimberley Community Alcohol and Drug Services (KCADS) and WA Country Health Service (WACHS) to address public safety concerns and support harm reduction strategies.

Shire President Chris Mitchell said continuing the service was an important practical measure to help address discarded needles in public places.

“Discarded needles are understandably a concern for our community, particularly when they are found in parks, streets and other public areas,” Cr Mitchell said.

“Continuing this service means we can take practical action to remove discarded needles from public places and reduce the potential risk to our community and the staff who respond to these issues.

“We will continue working with our partners and advocating for measures that improve the safe disposal of needles and help keep our public spaces safe.”

The Broome Needle and Syringe Exchange Program (NSEP) is a public health initiative aimed at reducing the transmission of blood-borne viruses and supporting harm reduction.

The Shire’s syringe collection service and public sharps disposal bins complement broader health initiatives by supporting the safe disposal and collection of needles in the community.