PARENTS can learn how to tackle teenage binge drinking at a free community forum tomorrow.
The forum, supported by VicHealth, the Australian Drug Foundation and state government, is at Caroline Springs Secondary College.
Parents will be taught strategies for keeping their teens safe at parties and protecting them from alcohol-related harm.
Course facilitator Leigh Bartlett, of the Barwon Adolescent Taskforce, is urging parents to attend. “This session is about equipping them with real strategies they can put in place straightaway to keep their kids safe,” Ms Bartlett said.
“We want parents to feel reassured that they can have meaningful conversations and give their children a plan to help them make choices about alcohol.”
Ms Bartlett said the session would also give parents a chance to ask questions about Victoria’s new secondary supply laws.
Under the legislation, which came into effect on November 1 last year, it is illegal to serve alcohol in a private home to anyone under the age of 18 without the permission of their parent or guardian. Adults who breach the law face fines of more than $7000.
“This law can be a useful conversation starter for parents to bring up the topic of alcohol and safe partying with their children and other parents,” Ms Bartlett said.
Melton resident Bruce Clark’s son Leigh, 15, died in 1999 after drinking alcohol given to him by a friend’s mother at a party.
Mr Clark is encouraging parents to attend the forum. “Parents should grasp the chance to keep their children safe and protect them from the harm that alcohol can cause.”
The forum starts at 7pm.
Details: teendrinkinglaw.vic.gov.au
