A Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA) Sector Demand Survey has revealed alarming hold-ups for youth-specific AOD treatment.
On any day during September, there were 415 vulnerable young people waiting for treatment - almost 100 more than the figure in 2023.
The waiting list blowout for young Victorians comes in the midst of a youth crime crisis.
Overall, on any day during September, there were a staggering 4550 Victorians on waitlists for various forms of funded AOD treatment.
This is the second-highest figure recorded since the survey began and is just below the peak of 4615 in 2024.
Additionally, 1858 people were waiting to be admitted to treatment via the intake and assessment processes - more than double the 2020 figure.
The Minister dodged questions in Parliament on the reasons for the alarming spike in numbers.
Shadow Minister for Mental Health, Emma Kealy, said the waiting list numbers were disturbing.
"We are in a youth crime crisis and when our youth need help for drug and alcohol treatment too often they can't get it," Ms Kealy said.
"The Allan Labor Government must start taking this growing issue seriously - it is clear an increase in capacity in necessary.
"A suitably resourced AOD sector would surely have a positive impact on tackling the youth crime crisis.
"Labor can't manage mental health and the most vulnerable Victorians are paying the price."
