Australia dominates global methylamphetamine use, topping the list of 24 countries for the most intense users.
Methamphetamine use in Australia was found to be the highest per capita compared to other countries in Asia, Europe and Oceania, according to the latest report from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission.
For the first time since April 2017, methamphetamine, cocaine and MDMA use had a higher use in Australian capitals than in regional areas.
Methamphetamine has been found to be the most popular in Perth among the capitals.
Camera IconAustralia dominates global methylamphetamine use, according to a new report. Credit: supplied
However, the NSW region is using the drug more than any other rural area.
ACIC Executive Director Michael Phelan APM said most of Australia’s organized crime revolves around illicit drug use.
“Serious and organized crime groups benefit from the importation, manufacture, trafficking and sale of drugs that cause harm to the community,” Phelan said.
“Through the analysis of wastewater we get information about the organized and serious crime groups that supply the illicit drug markets.”
Australia has been ranked as the largest consumer in terms of methamphetamine, cocaine and MDMA compared to other counties such as New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Portugal and South Korea.
Those living in big cities use more cocaine, MDMA and even heroin than those in regional areas.
But alcohol, fentanyl and nicotine are more common in regional cities.
Camera IconMeth consumption in Australia was found to be the highest per capita compared to other countries. Credit: News Regional Media
The report found that illicit drugs have been rising slowly since the COVID pandemic, but are not yet at pre-pandemic levels.
It compared the consumption data of 13 million Australians and analyzed wastewater in both regional cities and capitals from December 2021 to February 2022.
Phelan said this period is a time when COVID-19 restrictions had been relaxed or removed in most states and territories.
“Organized crime groups have redoubled their efforts to supply major illicit drug markets as COVID-19 restrictions were reduced, generating significant illicit revenues, but they continue to face challenges, especially by law enforcement agencies, “Phelan said.
“Regular, near-real-time wastewater reporting allows the ACIC and our partners to detect and respond to growing drug threats in a timely manner and monitor the impact of responses.”