“A more temperate approach to alcohol abuse”

Alcohol plays a part in the deaths of 7,000 Australians and costs the nation more than $A7 billion every year. It contributes to countless motor vehicle, maritime and workplace accidents and instances of domestic violence and malicious damage. Cases of depression and suicide have been attributed to the misuse of alcohol. There have also been some recent worrying developments. Binge drinking has become popular among Australia’s youth and instances of alcoholic poisoning are increasingly common, especially within the indigenous community. Although it contributes to the nation’s illhealth and detracts from the country’s economic performance, we are still inclined to make light of alcohol abuse and tend to downplay its effects.