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Main findings:

• In the five years between 2014 and 2018, 39 Port Macquarie residents died of unintentional overdoses. This is 25 more than in the five years between 2009 and 2013, corresponding to a 179 per cent increase.

• In 2018, 216 residents of regional NSW died of unintentional overdose, compared to 308 residents of Greater Sydney (there were a total of 524 unintentional overdose deaths across NSW).

• The rate of unintentional overdose deaths has been higher in regional NSW than Greater Sydney every year since 2010.

• 2018 marked the fifth consecutive year of 500+ unintentional overdose deaths in New South Wales. There have been 2,798 unintentional overdose deaths in NSW over that time.

As stated by Mr John Ryan, CEO of Penington Institute: “In the five years between 2014 and 2018, there were 39 unintentional overdose deaths in Port Macquarie. That’s an unacceptably high number – and it’s 39 too many.”

“The data is clear: the overdose situation in Port Macquarie has rapidly deteriorated. People are suffering and dying unnecessarily and all levels of government and society are not doing enough to keep them safe.”

“This is Australia’s hidden health crisis. By releasing this Report with the most up-to-date data, we’re looking to start a conversation, bring overdose out of the shadows and ultimately reduce harms.”

“Penington Institute is releasing this year’s Annual Overdose Report on International Overdose Awareness Day, the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember those who have died without stigma and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.”

“International Overdose Awareness Day was first observed in Melbourne in 2001. This year is the 20th IOAD and it is being recognised with events around the world, including local landmarks being lit purple in support of the campaign.”