Methamphetamine Deaths, Hospitalisations Hit Record Levels in Australia
In 2024, there were 753 overdose deaths mainly involving methamphetamine, while 14,000 hospital stays were recorded due to methamphetamine use in 2023–24.
Methamphetamine-related deaths and hospitalisations have reached record levels in Australia, according to new research. In 2024, 753 overdose deaths involved amphetamine-type stimulants, primarily methamphetamine, representing a rate of 2.9 deaths per 100,000 people. The country also saw nearly 14,000 hospital stays due to methamphetamine use in 2023-24, a record 53 per 100,000 people, and wastewater testing indicated a record 15.8 tonnes of the drug was used in 2024-25.
- Methamphetamine-related deaths and hospitalisations are at record levels in Australia.
- In 2024, there were 753 overdose deaths involving amphetamine-type stimulants, mainly methamphetamine.
- This equates to a death rate of 2.9 per 100,000 people, a substantial increase from previous years.
- Nearly 14,000 hospital stays were attributed to methamphetamine use in 2023-24.
- This represents a record rate of 53 hospital stays per 100,000 people.
- Wastewater testing revealed an estimated 15.8 tonnes of methamphetamine were used in 2024-25, a record in every state and territory.
- Authorities seized over 16 tonnes of methamphetamine in 2024, exceeding previous years’ seizures.
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