Health expert's alcohol warning in new advert

• New State Government campaign about young people and alcohol

• Latest data shows the source of the students' last alcoholic drink was most commonly their parents (28.2%)

Encouraging West Australians not to provide alcohol to under 18s is the focus of a new State Government campaign featuring Dr Fiona Wood that starts today.

Mental Health Minister Helen Morton said evidence that alcohol can damage young people's developing brains and bodies was clear.

"There are many misconceptions regarding alcohol and young people and we're here to present the fact that for under 18s no alcohol is the safest choice," Mrs Morton said.

"Most people would know Dr Fiona Wood is the well-respected director of the Burns Unit at Royal Perth Hospital, and she has volunteered her time to tell us about some of the alcohol-related harm being experienced by young people that she has seen.

"I think her radio ad is compelling, and I hope parents and friends pick up the message that for the healthy development of our young people it is essential they do not drink alcohol until they are at least 18.

"We want this campaign to spark some informed discussion among families, and give parents some tools for talking about this issue with their children."

Families and parents who want to discuss this issue with their children can find more information and tools to help them at http://www.alcoholthinkagain.com.au

The campaign will include State-wide television, radio and press advertising.  The latest phase of the Alcohol.Think Again Parents, Young People and Alcohol Campaign is a joint initiative between the Drug and Alcohol Office; the McCusker Centre for Action on Alcohol and Youth; and the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, with funding through the State Government from Healthway.

      Fact File

• The National Health and Medical Research Guidelines state that for children and young people under 18 years of age, not drinking alcohol is the safest choice

• The Australian School Students Alcohol and Drug Survey 2011 shows that in WA the proportion of students drinking at risky levels for lifetime harm has increased over time for each age group and are significantly higher in 2011 than they were in 1993; and that the source of the students' last alcoholic drink was most commonly their parents (28.2%), followed by their friends (26.4%)

Minister's office - 6552 6900