Australia sees sharp rise in overdose deaths, 2024 data shows

New figures released by the independent Penington Institute reveal that 2,596 Australians died from drug‑induced overdoses in 2024 – about seven deaths per day. Unintentional overdoses accounted for almost 80 % of the toll, with opioids involved in more than 40 % of those cases. The highest state totals were recorded in New South Wales (587 deaths) and Victoria (572 deaths), the latter matching its previous record level.

For the first time since records began, people in their 50s led the age group with the most fatalities (533 deaths), closely followed by those in their 40s (531). Men were disproportionately affected, with 1,520 male deaths versus 571 female deaths. Stimulant‑related deaths rose 25 % in a single year, overtaking benzodiazepines as the second‑most common drug class.

Penington Institute chief executive John Ryan called the situation “one of the nation’s most urgent public health emergencies,” warning that “seven Australians are dying every day from overdose.” He urged expanded harm‑reduction services and political urgency, stating, “What is missing is political urgency… Every delayed decision carries a human cost.”