lighthouse in regional Australia

Alcohol and other drugs in regional and remote areas

A study conducted in early 2019 by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare confirmed alcohol consumption is significantly higher in regional and remote areas of Australia when compared to major cities.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report highlights that the use of alcohol and some drugs, as well as harms related to use and access to treatment, is very different for people living in non-urban areas.

Alcohol and the regions

Alcohol is the most commonly used drug in Australia, with consumption per capita and alcohol-related harms increasing with remoteness. People living in regional and remote areas are more likely to drink frequently or at levels that are harmful to their health.