Australia Surges to Second Largest Global Consumer of Methamphetamine, New Data Reveals
Australia becomes second largest consumer of methamphetamine globally, wastewater monitoring reveals
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
A recent report from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission indicates that methamphetamine use in Australia has nearly doubled over the last decade, making the country the second largest consumer of meth globally, following the United States. Wastewater monitoring shows alarming increases in the consumption of various stimulants, highlighting a critical need for coordinated national responses.
- 01Australia's methamphetamine consumption rose to 15,971 tonnes, making it the second largest consumer globally.
- 02Cocaine and heroin use also reached record levels, with cocaine consumption at 7,985 tonnes.
- 03The total market value of major illicit drugs increased from $11.5 billion to $14.3 billion.
- 04Tasmania saw the highest annual increase in meth use at 38%, while the Northern Territory recorded a 50% spike in heroin use.
- 05The report emphasizes the need for sustained national efforts to combat drug-related harm and transnational crime.
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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.
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The rising rates of methamphetamine and other drug use have significant implications for public health and safety, leading to increased strain on healthcare systems and communities.
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