Trends in Drug-Related Hospitalisations
According to data published by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC) – Australia recorded nearly 57,000 drug-related hospitalisations in 2023-24, representing a 10.5% increase on the previous year.
The rise outpaced overall hospital activity, highlighting the continuing impact of illicit drug use on the healthcare system.
Drug and Alcohol Risks Don’t Exist in Isolation
They can affect safety, wellbeing, productivity, decision-making, and ultimately an organisation’s ability to meet its duty of care obligations. As patterns of drug and alcohol use continue to evolve, it’s important organisations ensure their drug and alcohol policies and procedures, education programs, and drug and alcohol testing procedures remain current and effective.
The latest national analysis confirms a notable shift in the substances contributing to drug-related harm across Australia:
- Amphetamine-type stimulants drove much of the overall increase in drug-related hospitalisations.
- Cocaine-related hospitalisations also increased significantly.
- Opioid-related hospitalisations remained broadly stable.
These trends reinforce what many safety professionals are already seeing across Australian workplaces.
Review Testing Programs
As drug-related harms continue to evolve, organisations should regularly review their drug and alcohol testing programs to ensure they remain aligned with today’s risk environment.
While no single strategy can eliminate workplace risk, a proactive approach can significantly reduce the likelihood of incidents and/or accidents occurring.
Our team can help you review your testing program, provide or review a comprehensive drug and alcohol policy and procedure as well as support you with trusted drug and alcohol testing solutions, onsite testing services (24/7 365 days a year), awareness education sessions, supervisor training, and calibration and service for a safe and productive workplace.
Prevention, Awareness & Early Intervention
To protect your people a foster a culture of safety and accountability.
- Would Your Drug & Alcohol Policy and Procedure Stand Up to This Level of Scrutiny?
- Looking for practical industry insights? We regularly provide free expert-led webinars designed to help organisations strengthen their workplace drug and alcohol programs.
