Increased Drug Use in Australia: Wastewater Analysis Reveals Rise in Meth, Cocaine, and Heroin Consumption
Australia has witnessed a significant surge in the consumption of major illicit drugs between 2023 and 2024, according to the latest report from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC). The report, published on Friday, reveals record-high levels of drug use, with more than 22 tonnes of methamphetamine (ice), cocaine, heroin, and MDMA consumed nationally, valued at approximately $11.5 billion[2][3][4].
The consumption of cocaine increased by 69 percent, MDMA by 49 percent, methamphetamine by 21 percent, and heroin by 14 percent compared to the previous year[3]. Methamphetamine remains persistently high, accounting for around 78% of the illicit market value, with an upward trend continuing through 2024[1][2].
The rise in drug use can be attributed to several factors. The easing of COVID-19 border restrictions and lockdowns has led to a rebound in drug consumption[3]. Additionally, expanded diversity and availability in illicit drug markets, geographical hotspots such as Adelaide and regional South Australia and Western Australia showing higher methamphetamine consumption, and regional areas showing higher cannabis use have all contributed to this surge[1][2].
Capital cities have higher consumption of cocaine, MDMA, heroin, and ketamine compared to regional areas. The Northern Territory has seen the highest increase in meth, cocaine, and MDMA consumption, while Tasmania has recorded the highest increase in heroin consumption[5].
The national consumption of cocaine has reached its highest annual level, as reported by the wastewater programme. Regional areas have higher average consumption of cannabis compared to capital cities, although medicinal versus recreational use is not distinguishable in wastewater data[1].
Wastewater analysis, the process of testing sewage water for contaminants, was used to measure drug use within the national population[4]. The ACIC Chief, Heather Cook, stated that crime groups are exploiting high demand for illicit drugs in Australia, where they are "maximizing profit at the expense of the community's security and wellbeing".
The report indicates that the increases in methamphetamine, cocaine, and MDMA use are likely to continue through to 2027, albeit probably at a slower rate than the sharp rise seen through August 2024. The heroin market is expected to remain stable over the next two years[2].
In summary, drug use in Australia rose sharply up to 2024 with record consumption levels, driven by methamphetamine dominance and surging cocaine and MDMA use, with continued increases anticipated through 2027 but at a moderated pace[1][2][3][4][5]. The ACIC report also underscores the need for increased efforts to combat organized crime and protect the community from the harmful effects of illicit drug use.
- The surging consumption of cocaine, MDMA, and heroin, as well as the increase in methamphetamine, highlighted in the ACIC report, necessitates more analysis to understand their impacts on the Australian economy and mental health.
- The breaking news about Australia's drug consumption reveals a concerning rise in health-and-wellness issues related to illicit drug use, with an emphasis on mental health as wastewater analysis shows a national spike in drug use.
- As science continues to uncover the long-term effects of illicit drug consumption on the Australian population, it's crucial to focus on health-and-wellness initiatives and mental-health support services to mitigate any potential negative impacts.
