Unquenchable thirst: The real cost of alcohol in Australia
101 East asks if Australia is losing its war on binge-drinking amid an epidemic of alcohol-related crime and violence.
Drinking alcohol has long been a part of Australian culture.
But today, the country is suffering huge social and economic costs from its love for the drink.
A recent report estimated that the tangible cost for alcohol misuse is $25bn a year, including medical expenses, lost wages and productivity.
Ten million Australians experience negative effects from other people’s drinking, and 70,000 fall victim to alcohol-related assaults.
With an increasing number of young people binge-drinking, children as young as 10 are seeking treatment for alcohol addiction.
Police and hospital authorities are urging Australians to sober up but face formidable challenges from a powerful alcohol industry and an entrenched drinking culture.
Despite new laws to curb risky drinking behaviour, anti-alcohol campaigners are fighting for stronger restrictions on the industry; and for people to change drinking habits, starting at home.
101 East explores the real cost of alcohol in Australia.
101 East airs each week at the following times GMT: Thursday: 2230; Friday: 0930; Saturday: 0330; Sunday: 1630. Click here for more 101 East. |
