Following the tragic death of 19-year-old Georgina Bartter from a suspected overdose at a music festival in Sydney two weeks ago, an expert has offered some advice.

Murrumbidgee Local Health District clinical director for drug and alcohol, Dr Gilbert Whitton, said while it wouldn't always be easy for parents, it was a discussion worth having.

"The most important thing is to be available to listen to what young people have to say," Dr Whitton said.

"Parents shouldn't feel like they have to be experts on drugs any discussion is good.

"It's difficult for parents because many feel like they don't understand what drugs are available today.

"And teenagers often feel like they know what's best for them.

"Young people don't like to be lectured, they want their views to be heard, but parents should definitely open up discussions about drugs.

"Sometimes just listening is the best thing."

Dr Whitton said help was always available.

"I wouldn't say I've seen an increase in the number of young people with drug problems, but the problems are more complex.

"Often it's a combination of issues including mental health," he said.

"The point about buying an illicit drug is that you can't be sure what you are taking, there is no quality control.

"Parents need to find the right time to talk to them.

"There is no use beating your head against a brick wall, but in my experience with all people it's never a case of being resistant forever.

"If drugs become an ongoing problem, seek help.

"We have some good local support for young people.

"They can go to a drug and alcohol service alone or with a parent to get confidential advice."

Griffith Community Drug Action Committee (CDAT) secretary, Peta Dummett, said it was normal for young people to experiment.

"Many young people will experiment during those transition years from youth into adult years but usually only a small percentage will continue to use drugs," she said.

"The new party drugs of today are very toxic and addictive so what starts out as an experiment can quickly turn into an expensive addiction with long term major health risks and impacting their well-being."