Public health messaging has focused on the drinking habits of the mother during pregnancy. But a growing body of research shows that what dad is drinking before pregnancy matters too.
Alcohol use contributes to over 200 different diseases, injuries, and conditions. It is also a risk factor for gender-based violence and violent crime.
The collection and analysis of data used for making policy should be independent and open to ensure public trust in decision-making. The debate over alcohol licensing shows why this matters.
Rates of unwelcome advances haven’t changed under Queensland’s ‘Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence’ policies. In one entertainment district, it happened to 26% of women the night they were interviewed.
Even after ‘Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence’ policies took effect in 2016, Queenslanders still drink more heavily on nights out. Reported levels of aggression are higher than in other states too.
A comprehensive two-year evaluation of statewide measures introduced in 2016 has shown it’s possible to reduce alcohol-related violence while also producing economic benefits.
A program aimed at getting people home safely has cost A$300 million but has had little impact, aside from increased intoxication in CBD venues. Rates of assaults and road crashes are much the same.
Alcohol is a leading cause of early deaths among 15- to 49-year-old women worldwide, but drinks marketers love using empowerment to sell them more products.
The Queensland government has said it will push ahead with its plan to introduce lockouts and 3am closing times for pubs and clubs. This is a good idea for patrons and businesses alike.
Steroids are easy to scapegoat. Users are viewed as aggressive, violent and mentally unstable, able to snap at any moment and cause great harm to the people around them. Ostensibly, it is this perception…
Two months after the death of 18-year-old Sydney man Daniel Christie, who was punched to the ground on New Year’s Eve, New South Wales Premier Barry O’Farrell introduced a set of measures aimed at improving…
Attempts by communities to reduce binge drinking and the violence that often accompanies it are unlikely to succeed without a supportive legislative framework, according to research my colleagues and I…
Professor, Director of Research and Statistical Support Service and Program Leader for Substance Use and Mental Health, Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland