Is the employment status of Australians related to meth/amphetamine use?
Unemployed Australians are most likely to have used meth/amphetamine† in the past 12 months. Those not in the labour force are least likely to have done so.
2% of employed Australians used meth/amphetamine in the past 12 months compared to 3% of unemployed Australians, and 0.7% of Australians who are not in the labour force.
Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). 2019 National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NCETA secondary analysis, 2021).
† Meth/amphetamine: This term covers a range of stimulant drugs including methamphetamine and amphetamine. The National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS) described meth/amphetamine as including drugs commonly known as speed, ice, crystal, whizz, Ritalin, or pseudoephedrine-based cold and flu tablets.
Employed: Self-employed or working for salary or wages.
Employment Status: Whether an individual is currently: a) employed; b) unemployed; or c) not in the labour force.
Not in the Labour Force: Engaged in home duties, volunteer/charity work, student, retiree/pensioner, other.
Unemployed: Those who are not currently working and are actively seeking employment.