Alcohol and the community

 

The less alcohol you drink, the lower your risk of harm.

Alcohol is often shown on television, in movies and in popular culture. It is also present at sporting events and other gatherings. But some people are not aware of the health risks from drinking alcohol.

Did you know alcohol causes more harm than any other drug in Australia? Alcohol use can lead to accident and injury, increase the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease and stroke, and increase the likelihood, frequency and severity of violence.

This has led many people to proactively cut back on alcohol — or even give up entirely.

The ACT Government is committed to a harm minimisation approach to alcohol and other drug use in line with the National Alcohol Strategy 2019-2028. Under the Drug Strategy Action Plan 2018-2021, we are implementing actions that aim to reduce the adverse health, social and economic consequences of drug and alcohol use for individuals, their families and broader community. 

Explore this website to find information about the effects of alcohol on your health, ways to reduce your drinking to reduce the risk of harm, as well as specific information for people who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, children and families, and licensed premises and events where alcohol is served.

If you need additional support in making a change around alcohol, have a look at our contact list for further advice and assistance.

You can also get confidential advice about alcohol and other drugs by contacting the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.
 

Page last updated on: 1 Dec 2022