New Federal Government data has revealed an alarming shortfall in access to life-saving opioid dependence treatment in Victoria, prompting calls for urgent reform.
Figures from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare show that 57,754 Australians received opioid pharmacotherapy on a snapshot day in June 2025 – yet Victoria is lagging behind comparable states.
Opioid pharmacotherapy is a proven medical treatment that helps people manage dependence and minimise harm, but access in Victoria is not keeping pace with need.
Despite higher rates of illicit opioid use, Victoria recorded just 14,456 people receiving treatment, well below New South Wales, which reported 25,082 patients.
Penington Institute CEO John Ryan said the gap should raise serious concern.
We fear there is a substantial and potentially growing unmet demand for opioid pharmacotherapy in Victoria. We know many Victorians are using opioids, yet too many are missing out on the treatment they need.
He said the problem goes beyond access.
Victorians are not only struggling to start treatment – they are struggling to stay in it. Lower retention rates suggest the system is not working as it should.
Mr Ryan said the data points to deeper structural issues.
This shows that Victoria’s long reliance on private sector pharmacotherapy is not working. The Victorian Government should follow other states, including New South Wales, and invest in accessible and affordable public health services.
Without action, the treatment gap will continue to widen, leaving more Victorians without critical support.
Penington Institute CEO John Ryan is available for interview.
- Penington Institute is an independent drug policy research non-profit committed to freedom from serious drug harms.
- Media contact: Ryan Sheales, 0402 351 412, ryan@theagendagroup.com.au