"This has been particularly evident on the Gold Coast where alcohol-related incidents are down on past years, with police and local government officers commenting they are pleased that school leavers have demonstrated they can celebrate without excessive consumption of alcohol," Mr Templeman said.

"Schoolies deserve their well earned break, but activities combined with alcohol should be carried out in a responsible and mature manner, and this year the 'Class of 2008' appears to have taken notice of messages that alcohol is a health and social hazard."

Mr Templeman said despite the positive early signs Schoolies were listening, ADCA continued to be concerned regarding the promotion of sweetened alcoholic drinks, commonly known as Ready-to-Drinks (RTDs), and their influence on the teenage market.

"The announcement yesterday by the Minister for Health, Nicola Roxon, that the Federal Government intended to close an alcohol tax loophole to stop distillers avoiding the 70 percent tax increase on RTDs is to be applauded," Mr Templeman said.

"Brewing RTDs in a similar manner to the way beer is brewed so as to attract the lower rate of beer tax is definitely not on - any action by the Government to stop it happening will definitely help to improve the chances of young people drinking more sensibly. It is unfortunate that manufacturers appear to be testing the system and exploiting loopholes. One thing is clear here is the tax reform is working and has reduced the number of spirit-drinks consumed.

Mr Templeman said that excessive alcohol consumption was certainly on the national agenda which was further highlighted by the Government's launch last week of the Australia-wide awareness campaign against binge-drinking.

"This initiative not only focuses on the health harms alcohol can cause, but presents a stark picture of what can happen to young people who get themselves into dangerous situations by misusing alcohol and other drugs," Mr Templeman said. "While the campaign doesn't suggest giving up drinking, it wants the community to seriously consider the implications of excessive drinking and to avoid the outcomes of violence, assault and other risky and unsafe behaviour due to alcohol."

Mr Templeman said ADCA wants to see young people enjoying themselves, and asks that they continue to maintain restraint when it comes to drinking as Alcohol is a drug - TOO!

24 November 2008