A recent survey reveals that Australians who use drugs are increasingly seeking harm reduction strategies in a challenging political landscape. The annual data released by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre at UNSW Sydney indicates a rise in the use of naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses, and a growing trend in drug testing among users.
The Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System surveyed 690 individuals across all Australian capital cities. The findings show that while drug use patterns remained relatively stable compared to 2024, the awareness and uptake of naloxone have significantly increased. Among participants, 73% reported awareness of naloxone, up from 63% the previous year. Additionally, 19% of those surveyed obtained naloxone within the past year, a substantial increase from 6% in 2024.
Despite this progress, the environment remains risky for users. Drug alerts have identified the presence of potent synthetic opioids, such as nitazenes, in substances sold as MDMA, ketamine, and cocaine. These adulterated drugs can lead to overdoses, often without users being aware of the danger.
Drug Testing on the Rise
The data also highlights a growing engagement with drug testing services. Approximately 39% of respondents indicated they had tested their drugs in the past year. Of those, 71% used personal testing kits, while 43% accessed more comprehensive testing services. Unfortunately, many regions in Australia still lack access to reliable drug checking facilities, and recent political decisions, such as the Queensland government’s ban on drug checking services, have raised concerns about the future of harm reduction efforts.
The Illicit Drug Reporting System also surveyed 865 people injecting drugs, primarily opioids like heroin. Notably, 80% of participants were aware of naloxone, an increase from 73% in 2024. Furthermore, 65% reported having obtained naloxone at least once, with 55% having done so within the past year.
This progress can be attributed to the Australian government’s decision in 2022 to make naloxone freely available to individuals at risk of opioid overdose. In 2025, 32% of those who inject drugs indicated they had used naloxone to resuscitate someone at least once, up from 27% in the previous year.
Concerns Over Illicit Tobacco and Vaping
The survey results also shed light on trends regarding legal and non-prescribed substances. A troubling increase in illicit tobacco use was reported, with 63% of people who inject drugs indicating recent use, up from 46% in 2024. Among those using ecstasy and other stimulants, 46% reported recent illicit tobacco use, compared to 27% the previous year. This trend raises public health concerns that warrant further investigation.
Vaping practices have also come under scrutiny. Legislative changes have restricted the importation of disposable vapes and limited sales to pharmacies. Despite these measures, only 35% of participants who use stimulants reported obtaining vapes through pharmacies, suggesting that current regulations may not be effectively curbing access.
As Australia looks to reduce drug-related harm, experts emphasize the need to support affected individuals. Expanding access to drug checking services, rather than restricting them, is crucial. The success of the naloxone program demonstrates the potential benefits of investing in harm reduction strategies that empower users to protect their health.
For confidential advice regarding alcohol and other drugs, individuals can contact the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline at 1800 250 015. The findings from the Drug Trends studies, including the Illicit Drug Reporting System and the Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System, are funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
