DrinkWise is launching two new campaigns to help Australians remember the importance of drinking to moderation and being able to enjoy the upcoming footy seasons.
Today DrinkWise announced the return of its successful “You won’t miss a moment if you DrinkWise” campaign and is partnering with AFL legend and Geelong captain Patrick Dangerfield to encourage fans to enjoy the game responsibly and if choosing to drink, to do so in moderation.
DrinkWise has revealed attitudes towards responsible alcohol consumption continue to improve, with 83 per cent of Australians believing it’s important to encourage spectators to drink in moderation at public events, up from 76 per cent in 2018.
However, continued messaging is crucial, with 25 per cent of AFL fans reporting having missed a great moment at an event because a friend had too much to drink.
DrinkWise Chief Executive Officer, Simon Strahan acknowledged that Australians love to celebrate big sporting moments, but it’s paramount that we focus on the sport, not the drinking and that any consumption is in moderation.
“We know that AFL is a huge part of Australian culture, and we want fans to be able to enjoy every moment. These statistics reinforce the importance of encouraging moderation if drinking so that fans can soak up the excitement without missing out on any of the action.
“Through this campaign, we aim to remind fans to look after themselves and their mates, so they can experience every unmissable moment,” said Strahan.
Dangerfield added: “AFL is full of amazing moments – the big goals, the incredible marks and the thrilling finishes. It’s disappointing when you or your mates miss out on these because you might have had too much to drink.
“If you are choosing to drink while watching the footy, make sure it’s in moderation, so you and everyone around you gets to enjoy every second of the action and make memories that last.”
The moderation message is also being pushed across New South Wales, with a new partnership between DrinkWise and ClubsNSW, with the support of NRL star Zac Lomax and the state Government.
This partnership strengthens DrinkWise’s ongoing education efforts in New South Wales, particularly following recent research that highlighted 90 per cent of New South Wales residents agreed it is important to drink in moderation. Despite this, the research also uncovered that over a quarter (26 per cent) of people surveyed in New South Wales exceeded the guidelines in 2024, underscoring the need for increased awareness and responsible drinking practices.
Strahan said: “We’re glad to see that the vast majority of drinkers across New South Wales understand the importance of drinking in moderation, however, it’s concerning that a minority are still engaging in risky drinking habits.
“Our partnership with ClubsNSW will play an important role in further shifting the attitudes of patrons visiting licensed venues to watch sporting events or to socialise with friends or family.
“We’re confident about the positive impact this partnership will have in 2025 and beyond in reinforcing expectations around respectful behaviour and responsible consumption for those drinking.”
Premier of NSW, Chris Minns reaffirmed the New South Wales Government’s support for the partnership and expressed hope that similar campaigns would be rolled out nationally.
“We’re pleased to see the DrinkWise and ClubsNSW partnership come to life. DrinkWise’s educational materials play a vital role in reminding patrons of the importance of drinking responsibly and engaging respectfully with others. Additionally, these resources highlight the availability of support services, reinforcing that seeking help is a sign of strength,” Minns said.
“We look forward to seeing similar programs implemented across the country, helping to create a culture of responsible drinking for Australians that are choosing to consume alcohol.”
ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant echoed this sentiment, recognising the partnership’s crucial role in promoting responsible drinking behaviour in registered clubs.
“Clubs across the state have strict standards regarding the service of alcohol because we want all members and patrons to enjoy socialising and dining with their friends and family, or enjoying live entertainment, at their local club,” said Riant.
“Our partnership with DrinkWise is another proactive step in promoting responsible consumption for those choosing to have an alcoholic drink at a club, ensuring patrons are mindful of their drinking and are respectful to those around them. Supporting our local communities is our priority and this partnership is a significant part of that commitment.”
If you or someone you know needs assistance managing their alcohol consumption, please visit DrinkWise.org.au for a range of support services.
If you are a person impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence, including those supporting someone, please contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au for online chat and video call services.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au
If you or someone you know is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping, call 13YARN on 13 92 76 or visit 13yarn.org.au.
To find out more about the DrinkWise and ClubsNSW partnership, or the work DrinkWise is doing as part of efforts to create a safer and healthier drinking culture in Australia please visit www.drinkwise.org.au.