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Methamphetamine, commonly known as ice or crystal meth, is an illegal and highly addictive drug in Australia. Since the start of the 2000s, Australia has seen a growing demand for methamphetamine, with authorities seizing increasingly large quantities. In 2022, Australia's largest bust of methamphetamine occurred, amounting to 1,800 kg of ice found in Sydney. The production, distribution, and sale of methamphetamine are restricted or illegal in many jurisdictions, including Australia, where penalties for selling, possession, and use vary by state or territory.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Addiction rate | Australia had the highest methamphetamine addiction rate in the world as of April 2017 |
| Demand | High across Australia |
| Seizures | Australian authorities regularly seize large quantities of methamphetamine. The biggest bust occurred in 2022, with 1,800 kg of ice found in Sydney. |
| Labs | Around 750 meth labs were raided in 2014. An industrial-sized lab was discovered in 2018 in a suburban area of Adelaide. |
| Legality | Methamphetamine is illegal in Australia. Penalties for selling, possession, and use vary by state or territory. |
| Driving under the influence | It is an offense to drive with methamphetamine in your body or under its influence. |
| Treatment | Treatment and support options are available in Australia for people experiencing problems with methamphetamine use. |
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What You'll Learn
Methamphetamine addiction rates in Australia
Methamphetamine is a Schedule 8 drug in Australia, meaning it is available for medical use but restricted in manufacture, supply, and possession. The drug is sought after for the "high" or "rush" it gives users, along with senses of exhilaration and arousal. It has various names in Australia, with the two most common ones being "ice" and "shard".
Australia has seen an increasing demand for drugs like methamphetamine since the start of 2000. As of April 2017, Australia had the highest methamphetamine addiction rate in the world. The drug was first synthesised in Japan by the chemist Nagai Nagayoshi in the 1890s but did not come into prominent public view until the early 1990s when the Australian Federal Police (AFP) was warned of a new drug called "Ice". In 1991, Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia collaborated to seize 80 kilograms of methamphetamine believed to be manufactured in China. Since then, the amount of amphetamine-type stimulants and crystal methamphetamine found by Australian Customs has been increasing, from 71 kilograms in 1997 to 1,075 kilograms in 2011.
In November 2014, the Australian Federal Police intercepted and seized 2.8 tonnes of drugs, including 849 kilograms of methamphetamine, in Australia's second-largest drug bust. The biggest bust occurred in 2022 when 1,800 kg of ice was found in shipping containers at a Sydney port. Around 750 meth labs were raided in 2014, and an industrial-sized lab was discovered in 2018. In 2020, a total of 5.2 tonnes of methamphetamine was seized by the Australian Federal Police.
According to the National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2022-2023, approximately 200,000 people in Australia (1.0% of the population) had used methamphetamine in the previous 12 months. Lifetime usage is higher, with around 1.6 million people (7.5% of the population) having used methamphetamine in their lifetime. People aged 40 and over were the most likely to have ever used methamphetamine, while recent usage was similar among people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Gay, lesbian, and bisexual people were 6.6 times more likely to have used methamphetamine in the past 12 months compared to heterosexual people, while trans and gender-diverse people were 4.2 times more likely than cisgender people. Additionally, those with a mental illness diagnosis in the previous 12 months were 3.9 times more likely to have used methamphetamine recently.
Heavy or dependent methamphetamine use is associated with adverse consequences for individuals and society. Heavy users are at an elevated risk for psychosis and a range of mental and physical health problems. If they inject the drug, they are also at risk of contracting and transmitting blood-borne viruses. Heavy users often show high levels of criminal involvement and contact with the criminal justice system. However, only one in ten methamphetamine users reports receiving treatment for their drug use in the past year, indicating a need for improved treatment coverage.
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Methamphetamine supply disruption
Methamphetamine, also known as "ice", is a highly addictive drug that has been in high demand across Australia since the start of the 2000s. The Australian government has placed a strong emphasis on law enforcement to tackle the problem, with police activities focusing on disrupting the supply of the drug and pseudoephedrine, a precursor used in its manufacture.
The COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions caused significant disruption to the methamphetamine market in Australia. Data from the Drug Use Monitoring in Australia program shows that since the pandemic began, the availability of methamphetamine decreased, prices increased, and consumption declined. For example, the price per point rose from $17.50–$50 to $50–$250. A survey of 884 people who regularly inject drugs found that 71% reported a decline in the availability of crystal methamphetamine since COVID-19 restrictions began.
Large quantities of methamphetamine continue to be seized by authorities in Australia. In 2022, 1,800 kg of ice was found inside shipping containers at a Sydney port, marking the biggest bust of methamphetamine in the country. Around 750 meth labs were raided in 2014, and in 2018, an industrial-sized clandestine laboratory was discovered in a suburban area of Adelaide.
Despite these efforts, the supply of methamphetamine remains a persistent issue, particularly in rural and regional communities. A world-first study will examine how ice infiltrates these communities and aims to develop a roadmap to reduce supply and strengthen communities. With ice use and supply costing the Australian government $5 billion per year, effective strategies to disrupt the supply chain are crucial to combat the harmful impacts of methamphetamine on individuals and society.
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Methamphetamine possession penalties
In Australia, methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule 8 drug, and it is illegal to possess it without a prescription. The penalties for methamphetamine possession vary across states and territories, but they may include fines, loss of demerit points, imprisonment, and disqualification from driving.
For example, in Queensland, drug offences related to Schedule 1 drugs like amphetamines carry greater penalties than those related to Schedule 2 drugs. While supplying heroin (a Schedule 1 drug) carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in jail, supplying cannabis (a Schedule 2 drug) has a maximum prison term of 20 years. Possession of a drug, even without purchasing or using it, is considered a drug offence. However, the amount of drugs involved in the offence is a significant factor in determining the penalty. For instance, possessing a small amount of cannabis for personal use is regarded less severely than possessing multiple bags intended for sale.
In addition to drug possession, it is also an offence in Australia to drive with methamphetamine present in the body or under its influence. Penalties for driving under the influence of drugs can include imprisonment, fines, and licence disqualification.
Some Australian states and territories offer drug diversion programs as an alternative to the traditional criminal justice system. These programs provide individuals apprehended with small quantities of illicit drugs the opportunity to undergo treatment or education instead of facing criminal charges.
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Methamphetamine production, distribution, and sale restrictions
Methamphetamine, also known as 'ice' or 'crystal meth', is an illegal drug in Australia. The production, distribution, and sale of methamphetamine are restricted in the country, and authorities have been seizing large quantities of the drug on a regular basis. The Australian government has placed a strong emphasis on law enforcement to tackle the methamphetamine problem. Penalties for selling, possession, and use of meth vary by state or territory.
The drug has been in high demand across Australia since the start of the 2000s. In 2014, the Australian Federal Police intercepted and seized 2.8 tonnes of drugs, including 849 kilograms of methamphetamine. This was the largest methamphetamine seizure by the AFP until 2022, when 1,800 kg of ice was found in shipping containers at a Sydney port.
Methamphetamine was first synthesized in Japan, but it gained prominence in the early 1990s when it was introduced to Australia from overseas. In 1991, a joint operation between Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia seized 80 kilograms of the drug, believed to be manufactured in China. Since then, the amount of methamphetamine detected at the Australian border has increased significantly.
The disruption of the drug's supply chain and pseudoephedrine, a precursor used in its manufacture, has been a key focus of police activities. Methamphetamine is produced in rolling meth labs and imported from South-East Asia, with local labs found in residential areas. The NSW government has been criticized for its response to the drug problem, with calls for evidence-based reforms.
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Health risks and support for methamphetamine users
Methamphetamine, often known as meth, is a highly addictive and potent stimulant drug with devastating effects on health and well-being. It is illegal in Australia, and authorities have been seizing large quantities on a regular basis. The drug is in high demand across the country, and the number of people who have tried it is substantial (7.5%).
The immediate effects of methamphetamine are intense and dangerous. Users experience a rapid heart rate, soaring blood pressure, and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. The drug also induces psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, and psychosis, which can have enduring effects even after discontinuing its use. "Meth mouth" is another notorious consequence, leading to severe dental issues, including tooth decay and gum disease. Meth use also hampers breathing, causing chest pain and respiratory problems, and can result in skin problems, including acne, sores, and infections, due to a weakened immune system and poor hygiene.
Neurological damage is a significant concern, altering brain structure and function, and cognitive deficits, including memory problems and impaired judgment, are prevalent among long-term users. Cardiovascular complications pose a further risk, increasing the likelihood of heart disease. Weight loss and malnutrition, resulting from suppressed appetite, can also lead to various health issues.
Despite the absence of approved medications to treat meth dependence in Australia, several promising new treatment options are being researched. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has shown potential in reducing cravings by helping restore chemical balance in the brain. Lisdexamfetamine, a medication for ADHD, is also being trialled to manage withdrawal symptoms. While medication support is limited, a combination of behavioural therapies and support groups can be valuable for recovery. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and change thought patterns. Support groups like SMART Recovery Australia and Crystal Methamphetamine Anonymous provide free, peer-based support for those in recovery, offering an accessible way to connect with others sharing similar experiences.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, methamphetamine, also known as 'ice' or 'crystal meth', is an illegal drug in Australia.
Penalties for selling, possession, and use of meth vary by state or territory in Australia. It is also an offence to drive with methamphetamine present in the body or to drive under its influence.
Meth is a very addictive drug that can have long-term effects on both mental and physical health. People who use meth often may develop problems such as an increased risk of blood-borne diseases if injecting the drug, and they may also look much older than they are.
As of April 2017, Australia had the highest methamphetamine addiction rate in the world.
