Parents need to discourage underage alcohol consumption

Director of Burns Unit-Dr Fiona Wood. pic:abc.net.au

The State Government is hoping to discourage parents from providing alcohol to people under 18 with a new media campaign.

The campaign will start today (Sunday) and will feature Dr Fiona Wood. 



It will include State-wide television, radio and press advertising.  The latest campaign is a joint initiative between the Drug and Alcohol Office; The McCusker Centre for Action on Alcohol and Youth and the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research.  Funding will be provided through the State Government from Healthway.

Mental Health Minister, Helen Morton said that there was overwhelming evidence that alcohol can damage young people’s developing brains and their bodies.

“There are many misconceptions regarding alcohol and young people and we’re here to present the fact that for under 18s no alcohol is the safest choice,” Mrs Morton said.

Dr Wood is the well-respected director of the Burns Unit at Royal Perth Hospital. Minister Morton said that  Wood has volunteered her time to tell people about some of the alcohol-related harm being experienced by young people that she has seen.

“I think her radio ad is compelling, and I hope parents and friends pick up the message that for the healthy development of our young people it is essential they do not drink alcohol until they are at least 18.

“We want this campaign to spark some informed discussion among families, and give parents some tools for talking about this issue with their children.”

Families and parents who want to discuss this issue with their children can find more information and help tools at the following web address: http://www.alcoholthinkagain.com.au

Dr Wood is a previous recipient of Australian of the Year in 2005.

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