The National Wastewater Drug Monitoring (NWDM) program analyses wastewater to understand drug consumption across Australia. In total, 12 substances are reported on, including 3 opioids. Oxycodone and fentanyl (both prescription opioids) are included because of the potential for abuse. The other opioid included in the program is heroin.
The most recent NWDM program report (#21) is based on samples collected in August and October 2023 and provides some insight into opioid consumption in Australia.
Overall, the average consumption of both oxycodone and fentanyl was higher in regional Australia, particularly southeastern regional areas, compared to capital cities.
Hobart has the highest consumption for both oxycodone and fentanyl nationally.
Oxycodone consumption was generally steady over the past 2 years. However, in several areas, fentanyl consumption showed an increasing trend, with the August 2023 consumption levels higher than those reported 2 years ago.
The highest average consumption of Oxycodone was observed at a regional site in South Australia. Noticeably lower levels of consumption were found at a site in Sydney and another in Brisbane.
With regard to fentanyl use, a site in regional New South Wales had remarkably high consumption compared to other sites in August 2023.
Sites in Hobart had the highest capital city consumption.
In the year 2022 – 2023, national annual consumption of heroin was estimated to be 999 kgs.
Nationally, heroin consumption in regional areas was low compared to the capital city averages. That said, a site in regional Victoria had the highest heroin consumption in the country in August 2023.
Above average heroin consumption was reported in Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, as well as regional sites in New South Wales and Victoria.
Source: Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission
NATIONAL WASTEWATER DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM | REPORT 21
Implications for the workplace
Opiates which include heroin, codeine and morphine are included as a mandatory drug class in the Australian/New Zealand workplace drug testing standards, for both oral fluids and urine testing. Oxycodone is specifically included in the oral fluid standard and is optional in the new urine standard. Currently, fentanyl is not part of the drugs tested in either the urine or the oral fluids Australian/New Zealand Standard. However, in keeping with our proactive approach, DASA is investigating emerging testing technologies so that we may provide options for our clients should fentanyl become a serious issue in Australian workplaces.
If you have a drug testing program at your workplace, your workers must understand, at the very least, that opioids can be detected in workplace drug testing. Beyond this, however, we recommend educating your workers about opioids to help them make informed choices around drug use. Managers and supervisors must also understand how to deal with potentially intoxicated workers. At DASA, we have high quality and engaging educational material that does just that. To find out more, call us on 1300 230 231 or send an email to info@dasa.net.au
high-quality
Also, if you would like to know more about opioids, come along to our free webinar “The Rise of Synthetic Opioids” on Wednesday 31st July 2024. To register, click here.
DASA (Drug and Alcohol Solutions Australia) is proud to be leading the way in workplace drug and alcohol testing services throughout Australia. Whether your need is for workplace drug and workplace alcohol testing, advice on drug and alcohol policy or ideas on how to communicate your workplace expectations, policies and procedures to your staff, DASA can help. We have the experience, technical expertise and people to lead you to the right solution.
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