Binge survey on tap

YOUNG people in the City of Casey are being urged to have their say on alcohol and binge drinking.
An online survey has been created by State Opposition in an attempt to gather information from adolescents about what can be done to reduce the harm caused by alcohol.
Statistics reveal that Casey is above the state average when it comes to alcohol-related assaults, hospital admissions due to alcohol and alcohol-related serious road injuries. Opposition spokeswoman for drug abuse Mary Wooldridge launched the survey last week.
It was timed to coincide with Drug Action Week which began last Sunday.
“We know Victoria has some real challenges with binge drinking and alcohol-fuelled violence,” she said.
“With input from young people we have a real opportunity to put in place policies that can make a genuine difference.” She said the City of Casey had 226 licensed premises.
The Opposition will also use the social networking website Facebook to gain information about the topical issue.
“Young people know the reality of today’s environment, and have great ideas about what we can do to reduce the impact that alcohol has on Victorian families and communities.
“Through our internet-based survey and Facebook group we are reaching young people in the way they want to be communicated with,” Ms Wooldridge said.
“I want to hear ideas about topics such as alcohol education, advertising, the availability of alcohol to young people, liquor licensing and what treatment services we need.”
The survey can be found by visiting www.marywooldridge.com.