Welcome to the alcohol and work website

Alcohol is the most widely used recreational drug in Australia with one in two people aged 14 years and over consuming alcohol at least once a week. [i]

Alcohol-related issues can occur in any industry, occupation or workplace and may affect work performance, occupational health and safety and working relationships. Factors at work and outside work can contribute to alcohol or other drug use.

Use the menu topics at the left of screen to find information about alcohol and work.

Feature topic: Put your drinking to the test! Too many drinks last night? Called in sick after a big night out? A few too many over lunch? In Australia, the social and cultural pressures to use alcohol are very strong. Many Australians drink alcohol with their meals, to celebrate special occasions and to help them relax and have fun.  Many people drink alcohol in ways that increase the risk of harm to themselves and others. Problems from alcohol use can extend to any workplace through risk of accidents and injuries, increased absenteeism and loss of productivity. Did you know?  Workers who drink excessively at least once a week are 19 times more likely to have missed a work day?  The cost of alcohol on Australian businesses is estimated at $1.9 billion per year? Alcohol use can lead to occupational health and safety concerns, and can result in work-related injuries and fatalities? Alcohol use can have an impact on the workplace. This is not only related to people drinking on the job but also from people drinking too much the night before or having one too many during lunch.  Remember, it is important to consider how your alcohol use impacts on all areas of your life, and in particular your work life.  Take our free test to find out if your drinking may be putting you at risk and for support and treatment information, as well as tips about how to cut down your alcohol consumption.