Information about alcohol-related health issues and Australian Government policy.
The department is commissioning an external evaluation of its promotional products and communication materials to promote the Australian guidelines to reduce health risks from drinking alcohol. Pending the finalisation of this evaluation, the department will be producing a reduced number of resources and therefore stocks may be limited during this period.
In everyday use, alcohol usually refers to drinks such as beer, wine, or spirits containing ethyl alcohol - a substance that can cause drunkenness and changes in consciousness, mood, and emotions. It is these intoxicating and psychoactive effects that lead to so many accidents, injuries, diseases, and disruptions in the family life of everyday Australians.
Due to the different ways that alcohol can affect people, there is no amount of alcohol that can be said to be safe for everyone. People choosing to drink must realise that there will always be some risk to their health and social well-being. However, there are ways to minimise the risks. This site is designed to give Australians a basic knowledge and understanding about alcohol and its consequences in order to make informed decisions so they might minimise the risk of alcohol-related harms.
Where to go for help if you or someone you know has problems with alcohol
Alcohol and Drug Information Services in each State/Territory:ACT (02) 6205 4545
NSW 1800 422 599 (NSW country) (02) 9361 8000 (Sydney)
SA 1300 131 340 (for SA callers only)
VIC 1800 888 236
NT (08) 8948 0087 (Darwin) (08) 8951 7580 (Central Australia) 1800 131 350 (Territory wide)
QLD (07) 3837 5989 (Brisbane) 1800 177 833 (Free call within QLD outside Metro area)
TAS 1800 811 994
WA (08) 9442 5000 (Perth) 1800 198 024 (WA country)