Are younger or older Australians more likely to have used cocaine?
In general, cocaine use is highest among young adults in Australia, particularly those aged 25-39 years. After the age of 40, use declines with age. Teenagers (aged 14-17) also have low rates of use.
0.9%* of Australians aged 14-17 years have used cocaine in their lifetime; 0.2%** in the past 12 months.
16% of Australians aged 18-24 years have used cocaine in their lifetime; 11% in the past 12 months.
24% of Australians aged 25-29 years have used cocaine in their lifetime; 11% in the past 12 months.
25% of Australians aged 30-39 years have used cocaine in their lifetime; 8% in the past 12 months.
18% of Australians aged 40-49 years have used cocaine in their lifetime; 4% in the past 12 months.
11% of Australians aged 50-59 years have used cocaine in their lifetime; 2% in the past 12 months.
3% of Australians aged 60+ years have used cocaine in their lifetime; 0.2%* in the past 12 months.
Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). 2022-23 National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NCETA secondary analysis, 2024).
Significance is established as p<0.05.
* Estimate has a relative standard error of 25% to 50% and should be used with caution.
** Estimate has a relative standard error greater than 50% and is considered too unreliable for general use.