Adults believe that if they provide the alcohol, teenage drinking won't get out of hand. 

Unsupervised environments

Teens drinking in unsupervised environments are at far greater risk of experiencing alcohol-related harm: physical assault; unwanted sexual contact; illness (such as alcohol poisoning) and other injuries; motor vehicle crashes and death.

Alcohol supply

It is illegal to supply alcohol to a young person under the age of 18 unless you are a parent or guardian - and you are liable for a fine of $2,000 if caught doing so.

The facts

Almost a third of 15-17 year olds drink between 5-9 standard drinks in a usual session.

More than two thirds of alcohol provided to 15-17 year olds is by parents, caregivers or other adults.

79% of 15-17 year olds have experienced problems including unsafe sex, unwanted sex, injury, theft or violence after consuming alcohol.

Be positive and be aware:

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their child’s attitudes and behaviours towards alcohol. These simple tips provide practical advice on how to be a positive influence and decrease the risk of your teen misusing alcohol: 

• Talk to your teen 
• Educate by example
• Engage in their life
• Nurture the relationship 
• Set clear boundaries

Examine your own drinking behaviour:

Children learn from what they see. What messages are your teens picking up from observing your drinking behaviour? 

Don’t glorify drinking and intoxication

Encourage non-alcoholic family gatherings

Children see, children do watch this

Educate and communicate:

Explain why you don’t want them to start drinking until they are older. Tell them about their developing brain and the impacts of alcohol. Talk to your child about alcohol and the dangers of binge drinking in particular. Explain the increased risks of rape, injury and death.

Discuss views and opinions and set boundaries:

Listen to your teenager’s opinions about alcohol and negotiate boundaries early into their teens and clearly explain to them why you do not want them to drink in excess. You wouldn’t start a night like this, so why end it that way watch this

Be consistent:

Once you have set boundaries you both agree with, stick to them.

Find out who is who:

Take an interest in your teen's friends and friends' parents. The closer you get to their peer groups, the more understanding and awareness you will have.  

Helpful links

www.drinkwise.com.au

http://www.drinkingnightmare.gov.au

http://www.acceptresponsibility.org.uk