Schoolies is a chance for young people to mark the milestone of graduating high school and embrace their growing independence. It’s a once in a lifetime experience shared with school friends all celebrating their achievements.
It’s a good idea to have a conversation with your child before Schooolies to discuss personal safety strategies, educate them on the law, and if they’re over 18 years old, what the alcohol limits are.
Large events like Schoolies can carry risks to personal safety. Discussing ahead of time strategies and plans can help prepare your child if they find themselves in a situation they’re not comfortable with.
It is also illegal for someone to sell or provide alcohol to anyone under 18.
Breaking these laws can result in being fined up to $2,200 per offence, and the licensee or approved manager can be permanently disqualified and the liquor licence suspended.
Anyone who appears to look under 25 years old may need to provide proof of age when entering a licensed venue or buying or consuming alcohol from that venue. Accepted proof of age IDs includes:
It's against the law to use false identification documents as proof of age to get into a licensed venue. Using a false ID may result in a fine of up to $2,200 or an on-the-spot penalty of $220. Provisional drivers may also have 6 months added to their driver licence.
Adults who allow a minor to use their ID, may be fined up to $3,300 or given an on-the-spot fine of $330.
It’s important that your child understands that they won’t be in trouble for contacting you or finding themselves in a situation they need help getting out of, whether that is the police or by calling 000
Drinking alcohol can affect your body and your mind. These guidelines are to help lower the risk of alcohol-related harm.
A standard drink contains 10 grams of alcohol regardless of the size of the container (glass, bottle, can) or type of alcohol (beer, wine, spirit). 375ml can or bottle full-strength beer = 1.4 standard drinks 150ml wine = 1.4 standard drinks 30 ml spirits = 1 standard drink.
For most healthy adults - more than 4 standard drinks on a single occasion and you risk alcohol-related injury.