Alcohol and Young People

Underage drinking and the law

It is against the law in NSW to buy or drink alcohol if you are under 18 years of age. It is also against the law to ask older people to buy or supply alcohol for you if you are under 18. You are also not allowed to be in certain areas of pubs, clubs and other licensed venues if you are under 18. Fines for these offences can range from $1,100 up to $11,000. Police can also issue on-the-spot fines. For more information on underage drinking and the law go to the NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing's website at: www.olgr.nsw.gov.au

Applying for a Proof of Age card

There are several forms of identification (ID) you can use to prove that you are over 18: a current driver's (or rider's) license (Learners, Provisional or Unrestricted), a valid passport or the NSW Proof of Age card. For information about proof of age visit www.olgr.nsw.gov.au.
To apply for the NSW Proof of Age card, go to: www.rta.nsw.gov.au. (Go to "RTA Forms Facility" and then click on MISC).

Information about laws, offences and penalties

Many young people don't realise that they commit offences when they drink or buy alcohol, play poker machines or are in certain areas of pubs and clubs. They may also not know that there are fines and penalties for these offences. To find out about the offences and penalties (fines) relating to young people and alcohol, go to: www.olgr.nsw.gov.au.

Alcohol-free and drug-free entertainment for young people.

Young people have the right to have fun and socialise with their friends in an environment that is free from danger and hassles. There are groups and organisations in the community that aim to help young people have fun times free from drugs and alcohol. One such group is Police and Community Youth Clubs (PCYC). To find out more, go to: www.pcycnsw.org.
Another police-affiliated group, which provides drug-free and alcohol-free fun for young people, is the Blue Light disco organisation. To find out more, click here to go to the Blue Light page on the NSW Police Force website.
If you want to organise an event for young people, the NSW Government Community Builders "Committee Kit - A Guide to Running Events for Young People" is available at: www.communitybuilders.nsw.gov.au/building_stronger/safer/ckit.html

Other websites about alcohol of interest to young people

There are many good websites to connect young people to information and support services regarding alcohol. The New South Wales Government website, www.alcoholinfo.nsw.gov.au is an excellent starting point for young people who want to find out more about alcohol and health, safe drinking, making informed choices about drinking, and other relevant issues.
The Commonwealth Government is responsible for the National Alcohol Campaign "Drinking: Where Are Your Choices Taking You?" To access the National Alcohol Campaign, go to: http://www.alcohol.gov.au