Victorian parents are invited to free seminars across the state to learn more about teen drinking and the law from March to June 2012.
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Parents are invited to schools across Victoria to learn more about teen drinking and the new secondary supply law in their local community.
The Australian Drug Foundation announced the locations of the community forums, which are about to commence in 10 regions around the state.
John Rogerson, CEO Australian Drug Foundation, says the forums are a chance for parents to get a better understanding of how they can influence when and how much their children drink alcohol, and how the Victorian law applies to them.
The community forums are part of a broader education campaign being rolled out by the Victorian Government in conjunction with the Australian Drug Foundation and VicHealth.
“These forums will not only help parents understand the new legislation but will give practical advice on how to discuss alcohol issues with their children,” said Mr Rogerson.
The secondary supply law now makes it illegal to serve alcohol in a private home to anyone under 18 years, unless their parent or guardian has given permission. Adults who break the new law face fines over $7,000.
The free forums will be presented by experts from the Australian Drug Foundation and the Barwon Adolescent Taskforce (BATForce) and will cover:
- the new secondary supply of alcohol law
- alcohol related harms in young people, and
- parenting strategies to prevent alcohol problems in young people.
“These forums are integral to building stronger communities. They’ll get parents talking to each other as well as their own children about an important issue which affects all young people today. I’m extremely pleased that parents have been given this opportunity and would encourage everyone to go along and hear what the experts have to say," Mr Rogerson added.
| Date | Region | Venue |
| 14 March | Frankston, South Metro | Carrum Downs Secondary College |
| 28 March | Geelong | Oberon High School |
| 18 April | Hume, North Metro | Gladstone Park Secondary College |
| 23 April | Glenelg, South West | Portland Secondary College |
| 2 May | Melton, West Metro | Caroline Springs College, Lakeview Campus |
| 9 May | Whitehorse, East Metro | Vermont Secondary College |
| 10 May | Gippsland | Bairnsdale Secondary College |
| 16 May | Grampians | Horsham College |
| 22 May | Shepparton | Wanganui Park Secondary College |
| 23 May | Loddon Mallee | Swan Hill College |
Places are limited so register for your local forum today at www.teendrinkinglaw.vic.gov.au
For media enquiries please contact Renee Lustman or Emily Hughes on 03 9278 8100 or 0430 948 380.
