Moncrieff Media
Concerns for Schoolies’ safety after a spike in full-strength alcohol sales
18 November 2008
Local MP Steven Ciobo fears this year’s Schoolies will see a record number of alcohol fuelled incidents and bad behaviour, as a result of the Rudd Labor Government’s alcopop tax hike.
Reports show alcopop sales have decreased by 30 per cent since the introduction of the Government’s tax hike, while the sale of full-strength bottled spirits has almost doubled.
“Tax won’t stop binge drinking – the statistics show it doesn’t work,” Mr Ciobo said.
“Binge drinking is a major problem, there is no denying that, but the Rudd Labor Government’s tax on ready-to-drink beverages is not the solution.
“What young Gold Coasters need is education on binge drinking, not a tax on Bacardi Breezers and UDL’s.
“I am very concerned, with Schoolies just days away, more teenagers will get their hands on full-strength bottles of spirits than pre-mixed drinks because of the tax hike.
“This creates the very likely chance alcohol related violence, drink spiking and binge drinking will increase this Schoolies, which should be a safe and enjoyable end of year celebration.
“Kevin Rudd’s alcopop tax only exacerbates the problem, according to statistics, as more people choose the cheaper full-strength bottled spirits over pre-mixed drinks.
“I am not being a party pooper, I just want people to party safe.
“About 35,000 school leavers are expected to celebrate Schoolies on the Gold Coast, which in previous years has been marred by reports of drunken behaviour and violent attacks.”
Mr Ciobo is pleased there will be security working during Schoolies, in addition to police, after the festival’s security provider withdrew from the festival, citing safety concerns.
He also said local volunteers play a vital role in the smooth running and safety of the festival.
“Volunteering Gold Coast and the Red Frog Crew do a fantastic job helping Schoolies during the festival,” Mr Ciobo said.
“The volunteers are easily recognisable by their orange vests and offer a safe, friendly support network for Schoolies.”
The Liquor Merchants Association of Australia (LMAA) compared sales of ready-to-drink spirits and full-strength spirits between April and June 2008. The LMAA found an extra 266,000 litres of alcohol had been sold since the Federal Government's 70 per cent tax hike on pre-mixed drinks.