Health Budget 2006-2007

DrinkWise Australia

$5 million will be provided to DrinkWise Australia in 2005-06 for alcohol education programmes, an independent organisation focused on promoting a more responsible drinking culture.

PDF printable version of DrinkWise Australia (PDF 40 KB)

Why is this important?

• Alcohol misuse results in about 3,000 deaths and 65,000 hospitalisations every year from accidents, violence, and diseases including liver damage and cancer. The cost is estimated at $7.6 billion per year.
• The industry has acknowledged its responsibilities to change drinking cultures through measures such as the clear labelling of standard drinks on alcohol containers and through strengthening the Alcohol Beverage Advertising Code. This funding of $5 million provides Government support for DrinkWise to develop education and campaign activities using industry experience in promotion and advertising. The industry is making a substantial financial commitment to these activities.

Who will benefit?

• Many people drink too much and don't realise the harm they can cause themselves and others. Everyone will benefit from reduced disease, injury and violence and from the provision of a safer and healthier environment.

What funding is the Government committing to this initiative?

• The Government has committed new funding of $5 million in 2005-06 to this initiative.

What have we done in the past?

• A national alcohol campaign in 2000 targeted young people to assist them in making responsible drinking choices. The ongoing National Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy provides information to help people better understand the impact of alcohol on their health.

When will this initiative conclude?

• One-off funding for this initiative will be provided in 2005-06.