Hume was the state’s fourth highest local government area for fatal overdoses in 2024, a new Coroners Court of Victoria report reveals.
The data comes as Victoria recorded its highest number of fatal overdoses in a decade in 2024.
The report stated that 22 deaths related to drug overdose were reported in Hume, rising from 13 in 2023.
The Hume area is tied with Port Phillip for fourth highest recording of fatal overdoses, sitting behind Greater Dandenong with 26, Greater Geelong with 35, and Melbourne with 42.
Overall, 584 Victorians died by overdose in 2024, compared to 547 in 2023 and 552 in 2022.
Coroner Judge John Cain said, “Overdose deaths occur all across Victoria and no community escapes their impact – ensuring that Victorians can access supports, treatment and education is vital”.
“However, the concerning rise in overdose deaths and especially those involving illegal drugs is a stark reminder that we need to keep building on our harm reduction efforts,” he said.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation chief executive Dr Erin Lalor said Victoria was lacking a long-term alcohol and drug strategy.
“This strategy needs a strong focus on preventing harms from occurring in the first place, with a dedicated budget alongside it,” Dr Lalor said.
Dr Lalor said she supports pill testing in Victoria and emphasised the need for broader strategies to reduce drug-related harm, including community-led prevention programs, targeted education for high-risk groups, and efforts to combat stigma around alcohol and drug use.
“We need stronger investments to reduce stigma, because stigma can stop people seeking help and support, negatively impacting their health, wellbeing, employment and social outcomes,” she said.
Odyssey Victoria chief executive Dr Stefan Gruenert said issues surrounding drug use and overdoses are complex.
“A combination of services can make the difference,” Dr Gruenert said.
“Services need to be made more accessible for places like Hume which might be further away from the metropolitan area and I think that will make an impact, but we also need to work on education and prevention as well as treatment services.”
For support or advice, visit adf.org.au or call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 .
