As schoolies embraces alcohol free, industry bodies warn that risk is still prevalent

With Schoolies celebrations currently taking place around the country, various industry bodies are calling on Australian venues to comply with all RSA requirements and to ensure that safety is kept at front of mind.

“Our inspectors will be carrying out covert checks in the traditional Schoolies areas including Byron Bay and the Central Coast,” said Jane Lin, Liquor & Gaming NSW’s Executive Director of Regulatory Operations.

“It is important for venues to be aware of checking IDs of young people, being alert to fake IDs, making sure over 18s are not buying alcohol for minors, and being mindful of the effects of alcohol on inexperienced drinkers.”

Simon Strahan, Chief Executive Officer at DrinkWise, added: “We know how hard year 12 students have worked throughout the year and how they view Schoolies Week celebrations as an important reward for their efforts. While we want them to have a great time, moderation for those drinking and safety for all remains the priority.”

According to DrinkWise’s Alcohol at Schoolies Study 2024, the majority of Schoolies attendees are now choosing to substitute drinking activities for alcohol free occasions such as sober days at the beach and restaurant dining experiences. Last year, nine in 10 attendees engaged in activities that didn't involve alcohol during their Schoolies last year, with 33% choosing to exercise with friends, highlighting a shift in behaviour away from risky drinking.

Interestingly, 85% of Schoolies 2023 attendees said they chose to alternate between full-strength alcohol and zero-alcohol drinks to help pace their drinking and avoid getting drunk. Out of those who abstained from alcohol entirely, 40% said they felt like they could have fun without drinking, and 39% said they felt comfortable saying no to peer pressure.

“It’s great to see attendees are prioritising alcohol-free activities like exercising, going to the beach and dining at restaurants, but 26% of Schoolies attendees are still choosing to drink every day and 14% are regretting their actions due to excessive alcohol consumption,” said Strahan.

“In addition to this, our research has also found that 20% were drinking more after attending Schoolies, which is why our moderation messaging is so important.”

DrinkWise’s moderation messaging is being featured in over 700 retail stores in Schoolies hotspots nationally as part of its Schoolies Survival Tips campaign. This will encourage Schoolies attendees to moderate their intake, pace themselves and look out for their friends.

Liquor & Gaming NSW's messaging reflected a similar message.

“If you choose to drink alcohol, then do so responsibly, and don’t drink so much that you jeopardise your safety and risk becoming involved in violence,” said Jane Lin.

“Look out for your mates, especially if they’ve had too much to drink, don’t get upset if venue staff ask for your ID (anyone who appears to be under 25 may be asked), and never buy alcohol for minors, even if they’re your friends.”

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