Coroner’s report finds fatal overdoses are on the rise

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation is calling for the Victorian Government to implement a long-term, strategic approach to drug harm reduction, following new data showing fatal overdoses in Victoria are now at their highest level in a decade.

The Victorian Overdose Deaths 2015–2024 report, released by the Coroners Court of Victoria, revealed that 584 Victorians died from overdose in 2024 – up from 547 in 2023.

According to the report, 74.5 per cent of deaths across the decade were accidental or unintentional, with heroin, diazepam, methamphetamine and alcohol the most common substances involved.

It also found that people aged between 35 and 54 are most at risk of dying from overdose, with men on average twice as likely as women to die from one.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s CEO Dr Erin Lalor said the number of overdose deaths in Victoria was unacceptably high.

“Overdose deaths have a ripple effect, with loved ones and whole communities impacted. Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by these deaths,” she said.

The Victorian Government has committed to harm reduction through its Statewide Action Plan, investing $95.1 million in a health-led approach. The plan responds to all the recommendations of the Lay Report and provides increased support for services across the CBD, suburbs and regions.

This includes expanding access to pharmacotherapy, naloxone vending machines, Australia’s first “Never Use Alone” helpline, and a Community Health Hub at 244 Flinders St. However, Dr Lalor believes more can be done.

“While the Victorian Government is progressing, some great initiatives announced through the Statewide Action Plan, our state is lacking a long-term alcohol and drug strategy,” she said. “This strategy needs a strong focus on preventing harms from occurring in the first place, with a dedicated budget alongside it.”

Dr Lalor believes drug-related harm is a public health challenge that requires coordinated action across multiple government portfolios – including health, justice, families and education.

Last year, consultation took place between the State Government and the alcohol and other drug sector regarding a dedicated alcohol and drug strategy. However, this strategy is yet to be released.

Dr Lalor said that, in addition to implementing important services such as pill testing in Victoria, further measures are needed to prevent and reduce drug-related harm.

This includes stronger investment in community-led, place-based prevention programs, targeted education and awareness campaigns for those at greater risk of overdose and tackling alcohol and other drug-related stigma.

“We need stronger investments to reduce stigma, because stigma can stop people seeking help and support, negatively impacting their health, wellbeing, employment and social outcomes,” Dr Lalor said.

For support or advice, visit adf.org.au or call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.

If you’re worried about your own, or a friend or family member’s alcohol or other drug use, you can visit Path2Help. This free online tool connects you with local services that can support you in starting the conversation.  •