Fresh statistics from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research reveal a troubling rise in drug-related offenses.
Instances of drug drivers being charged surged from 1409 in 2014 to 13,815 in 2023.
The considerable increase in drug offenses is attributed to the expansion of the Mobile Drug Testing (MDT) program, increasing roadside tests from 20,000 to 156,000 yearly in NSW.
MDT, first implemented in 2007, aims at road safety and targeting repeat drug-driving offenders.
The data shows drug driving detections are higher than average in specific regional areas, with Broken Hill topping the list at 1884 per 100,000 people.
The statistics also reveal trends among offenders like being older, testing positive for methamphetamine, and having prior drug driving charges.
BOSCAR executive director Jackie Fitzgerald commended the efforts of NSW Police in prioritizing road safety through targeting unsafe drivers.
Despite the success of MDT, challenges exist in the small volume of tests relative to registered drivers, potentially limiting its deterrent effect.
In 2023, 18% of Australians aged 14 and over reported using illicit drugs, with cannabis and cocaine being the most common.
Research estimates that drug-related road crashes cost Australians millions annually, emphasizing the need for continued efforts in combating drug use.