ACT paramedics answered nearly 4000 drug and alcohol calls in 2024
ACT paramedics responded to nearly 4000 substance-related emergency calls in 2024. That year, 28 unintentional drug-induced deaths were recorded.
New data from Australia's Annual Overdose Report shows the ACT's ambulance service handled nearly 4000 substance-related callouts in 2024. Alcohol caused 2070 calls.
Drugs and medicines caused more than 1900 responses combined. Amphetamine-related callouts jumped more than 70 per cent between 2022 and 2024 to reach 333 incidents.
Other major categories included cannabinoid calls (491), heroin (211), and benzodiazepine (203). The ACT recorded 28 unintentional drug-induced deaths in 2024.
The fatal overdose rate has been rising. It went from 4.8 per 100,000 residents between 2010 and 2014 to 6.7 between 2020 and 2024.
Canberra's drug-checking service CanTEST warns people to carry naloxone, test drugs before use, and never use alone.
- 3970 total
- Substance-related emergency calls 2024
- 28
- Unintentional drug-induced deaths 2024
- More than 70 per cent to 333 incidents
- Amphetamine callouts 2022-2024 increase
- 4.8 to 6.7 per 100,000 residents
- Fatal overdose rate rise
Why it mattersThe data shows growing harm from substance use and preventable deaths. The right tools and information can save lives.
AustraliaACT residents face a growing overdose crisis; the Penington Institute and local health services are highlighting life-saving options like naloxone access and opioid treatment.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
