Two major initiatives are now rolling out across national liquor stores to reduce the incidence of underage drinking, with the Australian Liquor Stores Association (ALSA) facilitating the projects.
The ‘ID 25’ and ‘Don’t Buy it for Them’ initiatives are based on programs implemented last year by the Woolworths Liquor Group, now further developed together with Coles and the national independent retail liquor sector.
The ID 25 initiative will use store window decals, in-store posters and badges to both alert liquor store customers to the fact they may be asked for identification if they look under the age of 25. It will also remind staff of this practice.
‘Don’t Buy it for Them’ aims to help educate parents and other adults about secondary supply issues, reminding them of their responsibility when considering buying alcoholic beverages for underage teenagers. Striking in-store signs will highlight the penalties that exist in each state and territory.
ALSA believes a national policy framework with similar requirements and expectations by consumers in every state and territory will provide helpful guidelines for the highly mobile Australian population.
ALSA chief executive Terry Mott said the liquor store sector has worked with successive governments on these issues and argued for a consistent national approach. They have also called for an effective education campaign to encourage
community understanding of responsible alcohol consumption for a normal, healthy lifestyle.