The overarching objective of this project is to produce as comprehensive as possible an estimate of the costs of methamphetamine use to Australian society. The intention is also to develop an approach that could be applied in a consistent manner to other drugs in the future.

Project Collaborators External

• This project is being led by Professor Steve Allsop National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University
• Professor Tanya Chikritzhs National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University
• Associate Professor Anna Ferrante National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University
• Professor Dennis Gray National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University
• Dr Wenbin Liang National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University
• Professor Simon Lenton National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University
• Dr Robert Tait National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University
• Associate Professor Ted Wilkes National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University
• Associate Professor Steve Whetton South Australian Centre for Economic Studies, University of Adelaide
• Associate Professor Rebecca McKetin Centre for Research on Ageing, Health and Wellbeing, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University

Project Supporters

Australian Government Department of Health

To undertake this research into the social costs of methamphetamine to Australia.

Design and Method

Costs and burdens related to methamphetamine will be collected from a wide range of sources maintaining consistency were feasible. Costs related to the impact of methamphetamine related to health care, criminal justice and productivity will be included.

Progress/Update

Data collection and analysis is underway.

Benefits

An estimate of the annual social costs related to methamphetamine will be obtained, providing government with a benchmark value.