Alcohol Pricing and Taxation

Excessive alcohol consumption is a major contributor to both social and health Australia. In 2004-5 the total cost of alcohol-related harm in Australia was estimated at $15.3 billion.

Alcohol consumption, especially at high levels, can increase the risk of developing a range of chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Alcohol is a cause of cancer and consumption at any level increases cancer risk. In addition alcohol consumption may contribute to the development of other major chronic disease risk factors such as high blood pressure and obesity and overweight. An overview of the evidence concerning alcohol use and chronic disease risk is provided in the ACDPA Position Statement: Alcohol and Chronic Disease Prevention.

Click here to read the Position Statement.