17 September 2026
Bridget Archer, Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing
The Tasmanian Government is taking action to reduce preventable overdose deaths, with work progressing to establish a Tasmanian Overdose Register.
The Overdose Register will play an important role in improving our understanding of overdose deaths, including current and emerging trends, alongside highlighting where and how public health efforts should be focused.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said overdose continues to be a significant challenge across Australia, with the most recent Annual Overdose Report by the Penington Institute highlighting the need for continued action.
“The report highlights a reduction in unintentional drug-induced deaths in Tasmania,” Minister Archer said.
“This shows that the strong partnerships we have built in Tasmania, along with our evidence-based interventions, are making a difference.
“Every overdose death is a tragedy. Behind every statistic is a person, a family, friends, and a community who continue to feel that loss.
“Through our Tasmanian Drug Strategy 2024-2029, we continue to progress important initiatives for prevention, harm reduction, and treatment, including the expansion of access to take-home naloxone, real-time monitoring of high-risk prescription monitored medications, and needle and syringe programs.
“The development of the Overdose Register works hand in glove with our 20-Year Preventive Health Strategy, a key part of the government’s 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.”
The Department of Health will work closely with relevant Government agencies and other key stakeholders across the community to develop the Overdose Register.
If you, or someone you know is struggling with alcohol, tobacco or other drug use, seek help and support from your family, friends, colleagues, or GP, or contact:
- The National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline (1800 250 015)
- Lifeline (13 11 14)