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Australia's Drug Use Soars 34% Amid Crime Surge

8/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Australia experienced a 34% increase in drug consumption, with cocaine rising 69%, MDMA 49%, methamphetamine 21%, and heroin 14%.
The total street value of these drugs reached 11.5 billion AUD.
The ACIC links this increase to crime groups capitalizing on post-COVID demand.
Meth consumption reached a record 12.8 tonnes, raising concerns about community safety.

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Story summary

Australia experienced a 34% increase in drug consumption, with cocaine rising 69%, MDMA 49%, methamphetamine 21%, and heroin 14%.
The total street value of these drugs reached 11.5 billion AUD.
The ACIC links this increase to crime groups capitalizing on post-COVID demand.
Meth consumption reached a record 12.8 tonnes, raising concerns about community safety.