Safe celebrations
Australians love to celebrate, and parties are a great way to have fun, meet new people or strengthen the social bonds between existing groups.
Whether you are hosting or attending a party it is important to stay safe. No one wants their party ruined by drunken behaviour, property damage or someone being injured.
Whether you are a host or a guest at a celebration, you have rights and responsibilities around alcohol and other drugs.
Tips for hosts:
- Supply a range of non-alcoholic drinks such as soft drink and fruit juice.
- Ensure that food is always available, and avoid salty snacks that make people thirsty.
- Encourage activities such as dancing, karaoke, games or sports to keep your guests entertained.
- Recruit some "helpers" who can assist you with keeping an eye on guests. Make sure they have emergency phone numbers and know what to do if problems arise.
Tips for guests:
- Remember to eat, so that you are not drinking on an empty stomach.
- Control your alcohol intake by drinking some low-alcohol or non-alcoholic drinks.
- If bringing drinks to the party, don't take more than you will need, and consider bringing non-alcoholic drinks as well.
- Plan in advance how you are going to get home, and be prepared to change the plan if your designated driver is intoxicated.
Teenage parties
Serving alcohol to teenagers
Most states in Australia have now introduced laws to stop anyone giving alcohol to young people, unless their parent or guardian has given permission. (This is known as "secondary supply").
Those found guilty could face hefty fines. In Victoria, for example, anyone who supplies alcohol to a young person under 18, in a private home, without permission from a parent or guardian, could face a fine of more than $7000.
Find out more in our fact sheet “What is ‘secondary supply’?”.
Find out more about safe teenage parties
Workplace celebrations
Workplace events and functions can be high-risk environments for alcohol and other drug-related harms, such as violence, and drink driving. These can affect safety and workplace productivity.
The Australian Drug Foundation's Good Hosts program aims to improve alcohol management at workplace events and functions. Find out how Good Hosts can help you.
More information about safe celebrations
Last updated: 6 August 2012
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