It’s been impossible to ignore the pill testing debate after a string of deaths at NSW music festivals over the past few months – and now, it looks like organisers will be facing an uphill battle when throwing events in the future.

New reports state that from March 1, festival organisers will have to apply for a specific liquor license – similar to ones held by pubs and clubs – for every event. Those applications will be reviewed by an panel which is believed to be comprised of people from NSW Health, NSW Police, NSW Ambulance and Liquor and Gaming NSW.

“Festival organisers will need to ensure their events meet high safety standards,” Minister for Racing Paul Toole said. “Events with a poor track record and heightened risk will face greater oversight from authorities.”

Festivals will have to put in measures to keep punters safe, which includes designated ‘chill out zones’ where punters can seek help from doctors, nurses and paramedics, as well as free water stations. Organisers who fail to comply with such regulations will be held personally responsible, resulting in jail time and fines up to $110,000.

If the new license process results in exuberant fees for organisers, it’s not far-fetched to think that some may be canned altogether. With a march for pill testing taking place in Sydney CBD last weekend, we can only hope that it’s introduced sooner rather than later.