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Simple Guidelines

Unfortunately, there is no safe level of drinking. Having an idea of the Australian alcohol guidelines means you can understand the impact and reduce the risks of drinking. Knowing the facts means you can choose what is best for you when it comes to alcohol. 

Since COVID-19 started, some of us have reported drinking a bit more than before. It might not seem like much, but even small changes can become harder to shift over time. Here are some things to keep in mind as you rethink your drinking.

The Guidelines for Healthier Australians

While there is no safe level of drinking, the guidelines provide a framework for how to stay healthy and protect you and your family from alcohol harms.

The guidelines recommend that:

A standard drink is a drink that contains 10 grams of pure alcohol. Check this quick guide to compare the alcohol content of different drinks and how many standards drinks are in one glass:

When zero is the limit

Not drinking is the safest option for:

No drinking during pregnancy

There is no safe level of drinking when you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Alcohol can cause a range of physical, mental, behavioural and learning disabilities for the unborn baby. Visit NOFASD for more information.

Children or young people

For anyone aged under 18, no alcohol is the safest option. Drinking alcohol may impact cognitive development and lead to health issues later in life. Young people are also at greater risk of developing alcohol dependence if they are introduced to alcohol too early. 

operating machinery

Zero is the recommended limit if you are involved in, or supervising, risky activities including driving or operating machinery.

If you are supervising young people, it is recommended that you do not drink alcohol.

Get Advice

You should get advice from your doctor about drinking if you:

taking any medicines
condition that can be affected by alcohol

You may have an increased risk of harm if you:

illegal drugs Are taking any medicines 7d 0% 2d 24 BIG LITTLE HABIT TURN INTO
family history of alcohol dependence

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