Australia is experiencing a sharp rise in cocaine use, with recent data and law enforcement efforts revealing the growing scale and complexity of the issue. As criminal networks expand and consumption patterns shift, the demand for accurate and reliable drug testing has become more critical than ever.

 At Brassets Group, we recognise that drug testing is not just a reactive measure, it’s a proactive tool for understanding emerging trends, guiding informed decision-making, and supporting safer environments across workplaces, healthcare, and public policy.

A Changing Landscape of Cocaine Consumption

In September 2025, Victoria Police intercepted a vehicle near Kalkallo, Melbourne, uncovering 40 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $14 million. The two men arrested were allegedly linked to a larger drug syndicate operating across Victoria. This significant seizure highlights the increasing sophistication and reach of trafficking networks targeting Australia.

Meanwhile, the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission’s 2025 wastewater report revealed a 69% surge in nationwide cocaine consumption between August 2023 and August 2024. This spike coincided with record-high usage across multiple drug categories, including methylamphetamine, MDMA, and heroin, marking the first time all four substances reached peak levels simultaneously.

The Importance of Drug Testing in Understanding Cocaine Use

At Brassets Group, our hair testing data provides valuable insights into long-term patterns of cocaine use. Unlike wastewater testing, which offers a general snapshot of drug consumption across large populations, hair testing helps track individual usage trends and long-term habits.

Our 2024 results show that while the highest levels of cocaine detected in individuals have dropped, overall use remains high compared to before the pandemic. This kind of detailed data is especially useful for employers, healthcare providers, and policymakers who need to make informed decisions.

Some key findings from our testing include:

  • Persistently high levels of cocaine use in major cities, particularly Sydney.
  • Increasing signs of use in regional areas such as Queensland and other non-urban communities.
  • Shifts in usage patterns suggesting changes in user behavior rather than a true decline in overall consumption.

Why Testing Matters More Than Ever

In today’s environment, drug testing plays a vital role across multiple sectors:

  • Workplace safety: Employers can identify and manage substance-related risks, particularly in high-risk industries.
  • Public health planning: Accurate data enables health agencies to design targeted education, prevention, and treatment programs.
  • Policy development: Governments rely on testing insights to shape effective drug strategies and allocate resources efficiently.

At Brassets Group, we are committed to delivering scientifically rigorous, confidential, and reliable testing services. As Australia faces the growing challenges of an expanding cocaine market, our mission is to ensure decision-makers have the evidence they need to respond effectively.

Looking Ahead

The rise in cocaine use is not just a law enforcement issue, representing a broader societal challenge. Drug testing is a key part of the solution, offering clarity in a complex and fast-changing landscape. At Brassets Group, we will continue to support Australia’s efforts to understand and address drug use with precision, integrity, and purpose.