Cheaper methamphetamine fuels record overdose deaths in Australia
Falling meth prices have driven a surge in use, pushing overdose deaths involving the drug to a historic high in 2024.
A decline in methamphetamine prices, especially relative to purity, is linked to a sharp rise in use and overdose deaths, according to one outlet Drug and Alcohol Research Centre. In 2024, more than 750 deaths involving amphetamine-type stimulants were recorded, equating to 2.9 deaths per 100,000 people, higher than the roughly two per 100,000 seen from 2021 to 2023. Indicators such as wastewater analysis, hospital admissions and consumption rates have all peaked.
Authorities seized over 16 tonnes of methamphetamine, far exceeding previous years' totals. Users are shifting from powder (speed) to crystal meth, with the latter now dominant, and most deaths were unintentional among males aged 35-54. Experts call for a coordinated response that includes prevention, harm reduction, treatment and ongoing monitoring.
Why it matters
Rising meth deaths signal a growing public-health crisis that demands urgent policy and treatment action.
In this story
