Australia finds record meth, cocaine, heroin use in wastewater analysis
Summary
A report from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission shows a significant increase in drug use across Australia, including methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin, reaching record highs. The report highlights a 34% rise in drug consumption from the previous year, with the total street value of the drugs estimated at A$11.5 billion. The increase is partly attributed to the resurgence of drug markets after COVID-19 restrictions.Key Facts
- Australians used an estimated 22.2 tonnes of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and MDMA from August 2023 to August 2024.
- Drug use increased by 34% from the previous year, including cocaine (up 69%), MDMA (up 49%), methamphetamine (up 21%), and heroin (up 14%).
- The total street value of these drugs was approximately A$11.5 billion (around $7.5 billion USD).
- Methamphetamine alone was valued at about A$8.9 billion (about $5.8 billion USD), making up a significant part of the total.
- The wastewater analysis covered 57% of Australia, including both capital cities and regional areas.
- The rise in drug consumption is linked to the recovery of drug markets after COVID-19 restrictions eased.
- Wastewater data indicated that cannabis is the most used illicit drug in Australia, particularly in regional areas.
- The rise in meth, cocaine, and MDMA use is expected to continue until at least 2027.
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