Damon Mcknight
Drug use in Australia has been a significant issue, with the most commonly abused substances being tobacco and alcohol. The Department of Health estimates that one in six Australians struggle with drug addiction, while one in ten battle alcohol addiction. This amounts to over 2 million people suffering from addiction in the country. The pandemic has had a notable impact on drug use, with the closure of entertainment venues potentially leading to an increase in recreational drug use. However, there is conflicting data on the actual impact, with some studies indicating a decrease or stabilization in the use of certain drugs like cocaine and MDMA. The Australian government has implemented initiatives such as the 10-year National Drug Strategy to combat drug-related harm, and various support programs are available for those struggling with addiction.
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What You'll Learn
Fewer students are using drugs
The decrease in drug use among students could be attributed to various factors. One factor could be the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought about significant changes to people's lives, including restrictions on mobility and social interactions. Studies suggest that the pandemic may have altered the use of drugs, with some indicating a decrease in the use of drugs typically associated with social settings, such as MDMA and cocaine. The pandemic may have also disrupted the supply of illicit drugs, making them less accessible to students.
Additionally, the Australian government's efforts to address drug-related harm could be a contributing factor to the decrease in drug use among students. The National Drug Strategy is a 10-year plan that aims to prevent and reduce drug-related harm in the country. This strategy includes sub-strategies that focus on specific issues related to drugs, such as the National Ice Action Strategy and the National Alcohol and Other Drug Workforce Development Strategy. The government also funds research and surveys, such as the Australian School Students Alcohol and Drug (ASSAD) survey, to gather data and make informed decisions.
Furthermore, the decrease in drug use among students could be influenced by the availability and accessibility of support and treatment options for substance abuse. Programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offer support for individuals struggling with drug and alcohol problems. Free online counselling services are also available for those concerned about their drug or alcohol use. The integration of technology into recovery and intervention processes may have played a role in helping students identify and address substance abuse issues earlier.
While the percentage of students using drugs has decreased, it is important to note that drug use continues to be a concern in Australia. Amphetamine use, for example, has been on the rise, with an estimated 850,000 Australians having used amphetamines by 2020. Additionally, the impact of drug use on certain demographics, such as young people, remains significant. As such, it is crucial to continue addressing drug-related harm and providing support and treatment options for those affected.
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Drug use is down among 18-24-year-olds
The percentage of students who have ever used at least one illicit drug has decreased significantly since 1996. In 2022-23, 13.1% of students reported ever using at least one illicit drug, and 11% reported using in the last year. This remained stable between 2017 and 2022-23. Drug use among young people in Australia may have been influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies suggest that societal changes and restrictions during the pandemic altered drug use patterns, with some reporting a decrease in the use of drugs typically associated with social settings, such as MDMA and cocaine.
However, it is important to note that the pandemic may have also led to an increase in drug use among young people due to factors such as increased unemployment, social distancing, and the closure of entertainment venues. Additionally, the pandemic may have disrupted access to harm reduction services, potentially impacting this vulnerable population. While the overall trend shows a decrease in drug use among 18-24-year-olds, it is crucial to remain vigilant and continue addressing drug use and addiction through prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies.
Furthermore, the types of drugs used and the frequency of use are also important factors to consider. While cocaine and ecstasy were used by more people in the previous 12 months, most users reported infrequent consumption. In contrast, monthly or more frequent drug use was more common among those who used cannabis or methamphetamine and amphetamine. Understanding the patterns of drug use can help inform targeted interventions and support services for young people in Australia.
Overall, while drug use among 18-24-year-olds in Australia has shown a downward trend, it is essential to continue monitoring and addressing this issue to ensure the well-being and health of young people.
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Less frequent cocaine and ecstasy use
While cocaine and ecstasy are drugs that were used by more people in the previous 12 months, most people who used them did so infrequently. In the 2022–2023 NDSHS, 58% of people who used cocaine and 59% of people who used ecstasy reported using the drug only once or twice a year. This is in contrast to drugs like cannabis, methamphetamine, and amphetamine, where monthly or more frequent drug use was more commonly reported.
The percentage of students who have ever used at least one illicit drug, including cocaine and ecstasy, has decreased significantly since 1996. In 2023, 13.1% of students reported ever using at least one illicit drug, and 11% reported using in the last year; this remained stable between 2017 and 2023.
According to the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC), in 2017-2018, around 343,000 Australians aged 14 or older (1.2% of the population) had used cocaine in their lifetime, and approximately 119,000 Australians aged 14 or older (0.4% of the population) had used cocaine in the previous year. The number of people who use cocaine regularly in Australia is estimated to be around 113,000.
The proportion of people who had used ecstasy in the last 12 months remained stable at 2.5% between 2013-2014 and 2016-2017. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of drugs typically used in social situations, such as MDMA and cocaine, either decreased or stayed the same.
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Reduced access to drugs during COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated restrictions have had a significant impact on drug use in Australia, particularly regarding reduced access to drugs. The pandemic has disrupted supply chains and altered how people purchase drugs.
Firstly, international restrictions on air passenger transport have impacted drug importation. Australia's geographical remoteness from source countries has made it particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions. The reduction in air travel has likely decreased the supply of drugs in Australia, leading to reduced access for consumers.
Secondly, lockdowns and movement restrictions have made it more difficult for people to purchase drugs face-to-face. While most individuals have continued to acquire drugs in person, many have reduced their frequency of purchases and opted for larger quantities when they do so. This shift may be due to the increased challenges in concealing drug dealing activities in public spaces during lockdowns. As a result, consumers have had to rely on indirect methods of sourcing drugs, such as online markets and social media, which carry additional risks of detection and potential exposure to COVID-19.
Thirdly, the pandemic has also disrupted harm reduction services, such as syringe programs, making it harder for people who use drugs to access harm reduction resources. Additionally, the mental health impacts of the pandemic, combined with lifestyle disruptions and reduced social support, have contributed to a decline in overall well-being. Some individuals may turn to illicit drugs to cope with these difficulties, potentially increasing their risk of overdose, tolerance, and dependence.
Finally, the reduced availability of illicit drugs during the pandemic may have led consumers to procure substances from less reliable sources. This could result in a decrease in the quality and safety of the drugs available, increasing the chances of contamination, substitution, and the consumption of more harmful substances.
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Increased awareness of addiction signs
Australia has implemented several strategies to address the problem of drug use and addiction. One of the key approaches is to increase awareness of the signs of addiction, enabling earlier intervention and potentially preventing long-term harm.
The Australian government has recognized the importance of addressing drug addiction issues and has developed the 10-year National Drug Strategy, which includes initiatives such as the National Ice Action Strategy and the National Alcohol and Other Drug Workforce Development Strategy 2015-2018. This comprehensive plan guides the country's efforts to prevent and reduce drug-related harm.
Demand reduction strategies play a crucial role in preventing substance use and raising awareness about the health effects of drug use. These strategies encompass prevention, education, and treatment services. For instance, providing individuals with alternatives to substance use and educating them about the health consequences of drug use can help reduce the demand for drugs.
Additionally, the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' Drug Strategy (NATSIPDS) addresses the heightened risk of health and social harms from substance use within these communities. NATSIPDS emphasizes the importance of cultural competency and respect, advocating for holistic approaches that consider the physical, spiritual, cultural, emotional, and social well-being of individuals.
The Australian government also funds research centers to gather data and make informed decisions. This includes support for the Australian School Students Alcohol and Drug (ASSAD) survey, conducted every three years, to understand substance use trends among youth.
By investing in research, implementing harm reduction strategies, and promoting education and awareness, Australia is taking a comprehensive approach to tackling drug addiction. Increased awareness of addiction signs is a critical component of this strategy, empowering individuals and communities to intervene early and potentially save lives.
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Frequently asked questions
The percentage of students who have ever used at least one illicit drug has decreased significantly since 1996. In 2022-23, 13.1% of students reported ever using at least one illicit drug, and this number remained stable between 2017 and 2022-23.
The drugs most commonly used in Australia include cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy, ketamine, and amphetamines. In 2020, it was estimated that there were around 2.8 million cannabis users in Australia, with 113,000 people using cocaine regularly.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had varying effects on drug use in Australia. While some studies suggest an increase in the use of cannabis, amphetamines, and sedatives, others indicate a decrease or stability in the use of social drugs like MDMA and cocaine. The pandemic has also altered how people purchase and consume drugs, with reduced face-to-face interactions and larger quantities being bought at once.
