A report released by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) reveals a concerning rise in methamphetamine use in Australia, which has almost doubled in the past decade. The latest wastewater monitoring data indicates that meth consumption reached 15,971 tonnes in the year ending August 2025, making Australia the second highest consumer of meth globally, trailing only the United States. Cocaine use also surged to 7,985 tonnes, while heroin and ketamine consumption hit record levels. The total market value of meth, cocaine, MDMA, and heroin rose to $14.3 billion, with meth accounting for 77% of this expenditure. ACIC chief executive Heather Cook highlighted the persistent demand for these drugs and the emerging presence of synthetic opioids in the market. The report underscores the urgent need for coordinated national responses to address the growing drug crisis, as the data reflects real harm affecting communities across Australia. Regional areas are consuming meth and oxycodone at higher rates than urban centers, with Tasmania and the Northern Territory showing the most significant increases in meth use. The report serves as a stark reminder of Australia's vulnerability to transnational crime and the ongoing challenges posed by organized crime groups.