Alcohol advertising and youth drinking in Australia -- what are the available complaints mechanisms, legal and otherwise?

Abstract

Youth drinking is regarded as a major social problem in Australia. This paper examines the regulations presently in place, legal or otherwise, relating to the advertising of alcohol beverages in Australia, focusing on the complaints mechanisms available to those who are concerned that these alcohol advertisements have the potential to promote under-age drinking and binge drinking in young people. The paper discusses the Trade Practices Act 1974 (Cth), Broadcasting Services Act 1992 (Cth), the role of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Australian Communications and Media Authority, Australian Press Council, and advertising self-regulation through the Advertising Standards Bureau and the Alcohol Beverages Advertising Code.