Green’s Dictionary of Slang

(Aus.) delirium tremens, or excessive anxiety causing ‘the shakes’ .

1967		‘Whisper All Aussie Dict.’ in Kings Cross Whisper (Sydney) xxxiv 4/4: ducks and drakes: The shakes. From over-indulging.
1968		J. Alard He who Shoots Last 135: ‘Ya look worried Taggy, wot’s on yer mind?’ [...] ‘Ya gotda bloody ducks and drakes. Dere must be somethin’ wrong.’.
1983		R. Aven-Bray Ridgey-Didge Oz Jack Lang 24: Ducks and Drakes Shakes (alcoholic).
2002		Pete’s Aussie Sl. Home Page 🌐 ducks and drakes: the shakes, D.T.s.