Drivers on the road with cocaine in their system is now a bigger issue in Queensland than many people realise. But does this mean workplaces should stand up and take notice? What does it mean for workplace drug testing in Queensland?
According to a recent ABC News report, police data shows a sharp rise in drug driving detections since cocaine was added to roadside drug testing in July 2023. These figures are raising serious questions — not just about road safety, but also about what this trend means for workplaces across the state.
Between July 2023 and June 2025, Queensland Police detected cocaine in 1,473 roadside drug tests. This equates to an average of around 14 cocaine-positive drivers every week. Fourteen people a week who would have been able to drive – and perhaps pose a serious safety risk – before July 2023.
While cocaine detections are lower than those for other substances, particularly cannabis, the increase is significant. Prior to July 2023, cocaine was not part of Queensland’s roadside saliva testing program. Its inclusion followed growing concern about stimulant use, impaired driving, and the role drugs play in serious road crashes.
What the Queensland Roadside Drug Testing Data Shows
Queensland’s roadside drug testing program screens drivers for several illegal substances, including:
- THC (cannabis)
- Methamphetamine
- MDMA (ecstasy)
- Cocaine
The ABC News data highlights that cannabis and methamphetamine still account for most positive roadside drug tests. THC alone was detected more than 12,000 times during the July 2023 to June 2025 period, with methamphetamine showing similar figures. Cocaine detections are lower by comparison, but their steady rise has drawn attention from police and safety experts.
Authorities have also noted that poly-drug use — where drivers have more than one drug in their system — is a growing concern. This significantly increases the risk of crashes and serious injuries.
For employers, these trends matter. Roadside drug testing data offers a real-world snapshot of drug use in the community. And what happens in the community often flows into the workplace.
What This Means for Workplaces in Queensland
Is cocaine use an issue at work? The answer is not black and white.
At Integrity Sampling, we conduct workplace drug testing Queensland-wide and have locations in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, Rockhampton and Maryborough. While we do see cocaine positives in workplace drug testing programs, they are far from the most common result.
Like on Queensland roads, cannabis remains the dominant drug detected in workplace testing. It accounts for most positive results across most industries. Cocaine, by comparison, typically represents between 3 and 4 per cent of all positive workplace drug tests each year.
This aligns closely with national data, which estimates that around 4 per cent of Australians use cocaine annually. In simple terms, workplace detection rates broadly reflect usage in the general population. That suggests cocaine is present in workplaces, but it is not yet widespread.
However, “less common” does not mean “low risk”.
Why Cocaine Still Matters in the Workplace
Cocaine is a stimulant. It can cause:
- Overconfidence and poor judgement
- Increased risk-taking
- Aggression or irritability
- Reduced ability to assess danger
In safety-critical industries — such as construction, mining, transport, manufacturing and logistics — these effects can have serious consequences. Even small levels of impairment can lead to incidents, injuries, or fatalities.
There is also the issue of workplace culture. When drug use is ignored or unmanaged, it can normalise risky behaviour. Over time, this increases legal, safety and reputational risks for employers.
The rise in roadside detections shows that cocaine use is becoming more visible. That alone is reason for Queensland employers to review their approach to drug and alcohol management.
Why Drug Testing in Queensland Workplaces Is Essential
Effective workplace drug testing in Queensland is not about punishment. It’s about prevention, education, and safety.
A strong approach includes:
- A clear and up-to-date drug and alcohol policy
- Regular workplace drug and alcohol testing
- Education for workers and managers
- Clear procedures for managing positive results
When these elements work together, businesses reduce risk and create safer workplaces.
Integrity Sampling provides professional drug testing services in Queensland tailored to local industries and workplaces. We can also help with policy and procedure development and review, and education for employees and staff.
If you want to strengthen your drug and alcohol strategy, contact Integrity Sampling Queensland today to discuss how workplace drug testing can support a safer, more compliant business.
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New ABC News data shows cocaine detections rising in Queensland roadside testing. Learn what this means for workplace safety and why drug testing in Queensland businesses matters. Credit Paul https://shorturl.at/DzVK9
