Responsible Drinking

The Whisky Ledger publishes historical and educational material only. Nothing on this site is intended to encourage the consumption of alcohol. This page sets out Australian guidance on alcohol consumption and lists the support services available nationally.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) advises that healthy adults should drink no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than 4 standard drinks on any one day to reduce the risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury. The NHMRC advises that children and people under 18 years of age should not drink alcohol, and that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not drink alcohol.

The legal drinking age in all Australian states and territories is 18 years. It is an offence to supply alcohol to a person under 18 years of age. This website is intended for adults aged 18 years and over.

Alcohol is a depressant drug and a recognised cause of long-term harm. Consumption is associated with increased risk of liver disease, cardiovascular disease, several cancers, dependence, injury and mental health harm. There is no level of consumption that is entirely without risk. Any decision about consumption is a personal health decision that should be informed by qualified medical advice.

• National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline — 1800 250 015 (free, 24 hours)
• Lifeline — 13 11 14 (24-hour crisis support)
• Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636
• Alcoholics Anonymous Australia — 1300 222 222
• Family Drug Support — 1300 368 186
• DirectLine (Victoria) — 1800 888 236

Never drive, operate machinery or supervise others after consuming alcohol. Australian drink-driving laws are enforced through random breath testing in every state and territory. Plan alternative transport in advance.

If you are concerned about your drinking, or someone else's, the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 is free and available 24 hours a day.