A government-funded scheme analysing Australia’s wastewater has revealed the most commonly used drugs in each capital capital city.
Yep, our waste water throws new light on the nation’s substance use.
Sydney has the greatest consumption of cocaine, MDMA and nicotine. Melbourne tops the chart for heroin, fentanyl, and ketamine use.
Darwinians drink the most (and use the most methamphetamines) , whilst Adelaide leads the pack for methylamphetamine (ice) usage. Meanwhile, Hobart residents show the greatest use of cannabis and oxycodone, and Perth individuals consume the most MDA.
Brisbane doesn’t top any ranking but comes second in fentanyl and ketamine use. Canberra takes the silver spot for heroin and oxycodone consumption.
These findings contribute to the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission’s (ACIC) newest National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program report.
The report also revealed the average consumption of several drugs, including methylamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, MDA, fentanyl, and ketamine, is on the rise in all capital cities and regional sites.
The beneficiaries of this increased consumption were indeed serious crime groups relying heavily on their illegal activities, says acting chief of ACIC Matthew Rippon.
For those seeking help with alcohol and drugs, free and confidential advice can be acquired from the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015, and there are also free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling services available online.
Are you surprised at what can be revealed in our waste water?
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