Inquiry Recommendations Miss The Mark On Youth Violence, Australia

Main Category: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs
Article Date: 16 Jul 2010 - 3:00 PDT

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The Australian Drug Foundation is astonished to see not one mention of alcohol and other drugs in all thirteen recommendations from the House of Representatives inquiry into the impact of violence on young Australians. The report, Avoid the Harm - Stay Calm, is due to be released today.

"The report states that the links between alcohol and violent behaviour have been well established, so we can't understand why there's no mention of alcohol and other drugs in any of the recommendations," said John Rogerson.

The Australian Drug Foundation's submission to this inquiry included recommendations relating to the price, availability and marketing of alcohol. These strategies, agreed to by international health experts are based on robust evidence and will reduce alcohol-related harm in our community and have a significant impact on lowering the number of assaults, sexual violence and murders.

"The inquiry Committee stated that the issue of alcohol and violence remains a priority for action, so where are the recommendations on reducing availability of alcohol to Australian kids?" asked Mr Rogerson.

"The whole community wants action on alcohol-related violence to protect our young people. It seems the Committee has other priorities," added Mr Rogerson.

Mr Rogerson also noted there are vast amounts of taxpayer dollars invested in anti binge-drinking media campaigns, which mean little without the support of legislation.

Alcohol remains one of the major causes of preventable death and illness in Australia. It puts 1500 people in hospital every week and kills more than 3000 Australians each year.

Alcohol abuse costs Australian taxpayers $15.3 billion dollars each year from crime and violence, medical treatment, loss of productivity and death. Governments have a role in protecting the community from alcohol-related violence and other harms.

Celebrating more than 50 years of service to the community, the Australian Drug Foundation is Australia's leading body committed to preventing alcohol and other drug problems in communities around the nation.

The Foundation reaches more than a million Australians through community sporting clubs and also works with a wide range of Australians in governments, workplaces, health care settings and schools, offering educational information and campaigning for healthy and strong communities.

Source:
Australian Drug Foundation

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