Australians Spent $14 Billion On Illicit Drugs
A record number of Australians are using illicit substances every day. Consumption of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and MDMA increased by 21 percent in the year leading up to August 2025. Methamphetamine and heroin consumption saw large increases. Five surveyed areas recorded the highest heroin consumption levels. The combined street value of these drugs has reached over $14 billion. Increased cocaine production in the Americas has led to a higher market supply despite recent high-profile drug busts. The report found that Australians consumed over 26 tonnes of illicit drugs, representing a 21% increase. The data was released as part of a report discussing the current state of the rental market and drug consumption. Approximately 80% of illicit drug spending in Australia is directed toward methamphetamine.
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Sources · 7 independent
“A record number of Australians are using drugs each day. Aussies are splurging around $39 million on illicit substances. The cocaine uses surge nearly 20% despite the cost of living crisis.”
“they say, look, the bigger the black market grows, the more kidnappings you're going to have, the more assaults, the more threats and the more that gangs are going to be ruling the streets.”
“New research suggests artificial intelligence may not be the cost saver that many companies expected. The study found global spending is projected to reach about $6.3 trillion this year, driven in part by investment in AI.”
“$14 billion. That's what Australians are spending on illicit drugs each year and it's a record.”
“According to the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australians spent over $14 billion on illicit drugs in the 12 months to August last year.”
“billion on illicit drugs in the 12 months to August last year.”
“tonnes of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and MDMA was consumed in the year leading up to August 2025, which is a 21% increase on the previous year.”
“increases. Five of the areas surveyed saw the largest heroin consumption record. since the study began, the street value of the drugs combined has climbed to over $14 billion.”
“Australians spent over $14 billion on illicit drugs in the 12 months to August 2025, according to the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission.”
“Close to 80% of that was spent on meth lamp.”
“Close to 80% of that was spent on meth lamp. and Fetermines. The Commission's Shane Nielsen says increasingly, adaptive criminal syndicates are finding new ways of bringing illegal substances into the country.”
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