How many amphetamine-type stimulant arrests are made each year in Australia?
In 2020-21, there were 35,885 arrests related to amphetamine-type stimulants† in Australia. Of these, 87% were consumer arrests and 13% were provider arrests.
Source: Australian Crime Commission (2023). Illicit Drug Data Report 2020-21.
†For the purposes of this FAQ, amphetamine-type stimulants include amphetamine, methylamphetamine, phenethylamines, and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA).
Consumer Arrests: The Australian Crime Commission differentiates between people who have been apprehended for trading in, as opposed to using, illicit drugs. Those charged with user-type offences (possessing or administering drugs for their own use) are classified as consumers.
Provider Arrests: The Australian Crime Commission differentiates between people who have been apprehended for trading in, as opposed to using, illicit drugs. Those charged with supply-type offences (importation, trafficking, selling, cultivation and manufacture) are classified as providers.