WISER AND OLDER

The Drug Education Network argues that the national recommended drinking guidelines are not a measure of how much one can drink, but rather the maximum limit before harm may occur.

If Tasmanian’s halved their alcohol consumption, they will live safer, healthier and happier lives. Alcohol poses significant public health and safety risks. In Tasmania, a substantial proportion of people drink at levels that increase their risk of alcohol-related harm and this rate is higher than the national average and even more so for our male population. The harms are not limited to drinkers, but also affect families and the broader community.

The culture that surrounds drinking in Australia is largely driven by the ready availability of alcohol and a tolerance that has developed in the community over time for alcohol related problems. In fact, 340 extra liquor licenses have been granted in Tasmania since 2002.

There is a need to ensure the public is better informed about the health risks of alcohol. Effective progress in this area at the national level has been slow and there are limited prospects of adequate self-regulation by the alcohol industry.

DEN has conducted its own research locally on the level of understanding about recommended drinking guidelines, the impact of polydrug use (in particular alcohol and medications) and health risk factors for drinking to excess.

As a result, Wiser and Older has been developed to fill this gap in knowledge and understanding.

It is for people at all stages of life to learn about safe drinking and especially for the older generations who are using more prescriptions and over the counter medicines.

It will be launched by The Honourable Michael Ferguson, MP in Launceston on Wednesday the 3rd December at the Tailrace Centre, Waterfront Drive, Riverside.

This is a community education resource for Tasmanians to use in a range of settings. The DEN team believes that everyone has a role play to tackle harmful alcohol consumption at all stages of life.

This resource addresses this need by providing relevant information, guidelines and a call to action at an individual and community level.
Ronnie Voigt State Manager