12/08/2025 Call for strategic action as Victoria records highest number of fatal overdoses in a decade
New data showing fatal overdoses in Victoria are now the highest they've been in a decade, reiterates the urgent need for the state government to implement a long term, strategic approach to preventing and reducing drug related harms.
The Victorian Overdose Deaths 2015–2024 report released by the Coroners Court of Victoria, provides an overview of fatal overdoses in Victoria between 2015-2024. The report found:
- In 2024, 584 Victorians died from overdose, up from 547 in 2023.
- Last year, the main contributing drugs to Victoria’s overdose deaths were heroin (248 deaths), diazepam (219 deaths), methamphetamine (215 deaths), alcohol (141 deaths) and pregabalin (92 deaths). Most deaths (73.5%) involved multiple drugs.
- Most Victorian overdose deaths across the decade were accidental or unintentional (74.5%).
- 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 overdose.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Erin Lalor AM, said the number of overdose deaths in Victoria is 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.
“Drug related harm, including overdose, is a public health challenge that needs coordinated action across a range of government portfolios, including health, justice, families and education.”
“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. This strategy needs a strong focus on preventing harms from occurring in the first place, with a dedicated budget alongside it.”
“The State Government consulted with the alcohol and other drug sector last year around a dedicated alcohol and drug strategy, but we are still waiting for its release. We look forward to working together with Government to help build healthier communities across our state.”
Dr Lalor said that as well as acting to deliver important health services like pill testing in Victoria, other measures are needed to prevent and reduce drug-related harms, including stronger investment in community led, place based prevention programs, targeted education and awareness campaigns for those who are at greater risk of overdose, and addressing alcohol and other drug-related 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.”
For support or advice, visit adf.org.au or call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 .
If you are worried about your own, or a friend or relative’s alcohol or other drug use, you can visit Path2Help. This free online tool will connect you with local services in your area that can help you have that initial conversation.
ENDS
For media enquiries please call the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s media team on 0430 948 380 or email [email protected].