Researchers from Turning Point, Ambulance Victoria and Monash University have uncovered a surge in GHB-related ambulance attendances across Victoria, with Greater Geelong emerging as a regional hotspot.

The study, led by Research Officer Naomi Beard and Senior Researcher Dr Rowan Ogeil, Strategic Lead of the National Addiction and Mental Health Surveillance Unit, examined 16,971 GHB-related ambulance attendances between 2015 and 2024.

Greater Geelong ranked fourth for GHB-related ambulance attendances across Victoria, surpassing inner-city nightlife areas traditionally associated with GHB use such as South Yarra, Richmond and Fitzroy.

GHB Harm Reduction Targeting At-Risk Populations

According to Dr Ogeil, the study demonstrates that current public health approaches aren’t reaching the populations that are most at risk. “These patterns show us where and when people need support most. Rather than waiting for emergency situations, we need accessible harm-reduction services that can engage with people before harms escalate,” he says.

The findings highlight a critical challenge facing regional communities like Geelong. The researchers drew on data from the world-first National Ambulance Surveillance System (NASS), which allowed them to access real-time intelligence about drug-related harms. This data source proves particularly valuable for regional areas where other data sources are limited.

“Regional communities often have limited access to specialised alcohol, drug and other health and support services, meaning ambulance responses may be the only help available,” explains lead author Naomi Beard.

Evidence-Based Approaches Show Promise

The Victorian Department of Health’s drug-checking trial has shown promising results, with 65 per cent of 1,500 people at the Beyond the Valley festival near Geelong reporting their first honest, judgement-free conversation about drug use with a healthcare professional.

According to Dr Ogeil, a permanent drug-checking service in Greater Geelong, in addition to continued mobile services at regional festivals, could ensure that regional communities have access to these life-saving services.

The research team published their work in Drug and Alcohol Review and Monash University LENS featured it, with media coverage across a broad range of outlets, including the Geelong Advertiser.

Source: Turning Point