DrinkWise Provides Schoolies Survival Tips To Curb Dangerous Drinking

DrinkWise, an organisation dedicated to promoting responsible drinking, has kicked off its Schoolies Survival Tips campaign aimed at Year 12 students who are heading to Schoolies Week.

The campaign will be visible in over 600 retail stores located in popular Schoolies destinations, including Rottnest Island, Surfers Paradise, the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, Rosebud, Victor Harbour, Dunsborough, Philip Island and Lorne, with reminders strategically placed at the point of purchase to encourage moderation among school leavers.

This initiative, supported by Endeavour Group, Coles Liquor, IGA Liquor, and Retail Drinks Australia, will also utilise geo-located social media posts and Spotify audio streaming to reach Schoolies attendees to emphasise the importance of pacing oneself when it comes to alcohol consumption.

DrinkWise CEO Simon Strahan highlighted the significance of this campaign, noting the excitement and challenges faced by Schoolies who are away from home for the first time.

“DrinkWise is working with retailers to display moderation messages within liquor stores to remind Schoolies to pace themselves when celebrating,” Strahan said.

“We know for many Schoolies this is their first time away without their parents and that can be exciting but also a little daunting. While it is understandably a chance to celebrate the end of their schooling, we want to ensure everyone stays safe and makes good choices, especially if consuming alcohol.”

Research by DrinkWise in 2023 showed varying attitudes towards alcohol among young Australians aged 18-24. While 76% prefer socialising without alcohol, 67% dislike the impact of excessive drinking on the following day. However, 22% still engage in risky single-occasion drinking.

The campaign's goal is to reach Schoolies both before and during their celebrations, reminding them to drink responsibly and look out for their friends.

Schoolies Week kicked 18 November, with various events planned across Australia.

DrinkWise recommends the following tips for school leavers to have a fun and safe time:

• Always have your phone on you (and charged!).

• Make sure you have something to eat before and during drink occasions.

• Pace any alcohol intake and hydrate with non-alcoholic drinks (water is your friend!).

• Try swapping a full-strength alcoholic drink for a zero or lower-strength drink.

• Be extra cautious with drinks that have a high alcohol content.

• Stay with friends and keep an eye out for one another.

• Don’t drink drive or get into a car with anyone who’s been drinking.

• Avoid risky situations such as swimming after drinking or getting into arguments and fights.

• Beware of drink spiking – don’t let your drink out of your sight.

• Let your parents know where you’re staying and who you’re travelling with.

• Keep in contact with your parents throughout the week – so they know you are safe.

• Register as a school leaver with the local council (or Schoolies organisation) in the area you’re visiting.

• Put your ‘in case of emergency number’ (ICE) in your phone.

• In an emergency call 000.

• Keep money aside for emergencies.

 Head to DrinkWise for more info.