Policy context

Most Australian young people engage in healthy behaviours, yet participating in risk-taking behaviour including experimentation with alcohol and other substances can be part of the transition to adulthood. Evidence suggests that the earlier young people commence consuming alcohol and other drugs, the greater the likelihood of dependency and associated problems in later life.¹

Research indicates alcohol can adversely affect brain development in adolescents and be linked to health complications and alcohol-related complications later in life.¹ Chronic health conditions linked to alcohol include heart problems, cancer and liver damage.¹ Alcohol is also a contributing factor to the three leading causes of death among adolescents – unintentional injuries, homicide and suicide.²

Illicit drug use is a major cause of preventable disease and illness in Australia overall. Aside from the considerable health and behavioural problems associated with illicit drug use, children and young people are at particular risk of harm from drug use, as it negatively impacts the development of neurological pathways and is strongly associated with long-term drug dependency issues.³

Adolescent e‐cigarette use (vaping) and its harms are public health concerns.⁴ A national survey in 2019 found that 10% of 14–17‐year‐old Australians had used e‐cigarettes.⁴ More recent studies, smaller or non‐representative, have suggested that the rate is rapidly increasing.⁴

It is imperative to address any health concerns or risky behaviours early to improve future health and wellbeing outcomes and quality of life for young people.⁵