Alcohol, tobacco & other drugs in Australia: people experiencing homelessness

Abstract

The consumption of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs is a major cause of preventable disease and illness in Australia. This report consolidates the most recently available information on alcohol, tobacco and other drug use in Australia, and includes key trends in the availability, consumption, harms and treatment for vulnerable populations. Further, information on a range of health, social and economic impacts of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use are highlighted.

Key findings

• There is a strong association between problematic alcohol or other drug use and experiences of homelessness.
• In 2018–19, one in ten (10%) clients presenting to specialist homelessness services (SHS) reported having problematic drug or alcohol use.
• Between 2014–15 and 2018–19, clients with problematic drug or alcohol use have consistently received more nights in accommodation and more frequent SHS support, for a longer period of time than most other client groups. These clients are also more likely to be homeless on first presentation to support services (2 in 5 clients; 55%).
• In 2018–19, 6% of SHS clients sought assistance for problematic drug or substance use, and 3% sought assistance for problematic alcohol use.