Alcohol and Drugs

While Leavers WA is an alcohol, drug, smoke and vape free event, it is important for parents to understand that some young people may still choose to use alcohol or other drugs during the Leavers period.

The safest option for your young person is to not use alcohol or other drugs at all. This gives them the best chance of having a fun, safe and memorable celebration. Young people are more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol and other drugs, and each person reacts differently.

Parents play an important role in supporting their young person before and during Leavers, both through open conversations and by understanding the laws that apply in Western Australia.

Helping Reduce Risks:

If your young person does choose to drink or use other drugs during the Leavers period, encourage them to understand how to reduce harm to themselves and to others. Some simple strategies you can discuss with them include:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

  • Eat regularly and avoid drinking on an empty stomach.

  • Protect themselves from the sun by seeking shade and wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, sunglasses and a bucket hat.

  • Never mix alcohol with other drugs, including prescription medication, because the effects can be unpredictable.

  • Never accept alcohol or drugs from people they do not know.

  • Use a buddy system with friends and agree in advance how they will look out for each other.

  • Update emergency information on their phone so first responders can quickly access medical conditions or emergency contacts.

  • If they or their friends feel unwell, encourage them to seek help from event support services without delay.

  • Never drive a vehicle, including an eRideable, after drinking or using drugs, and never get into a vehicle if they think the driver has been using alcohol or other drugs.

  • Understand that alcohol and other drugs can affect their ability to give consent and to recognise whether someone else has given consent.

For more advice and harm reduction strategies, you can explore the Alcohol. Think Again and Drug Aware websites with your young person.

Understanding WA Alcohol Laws: What Parents Need to Know

Below is a clear summary of the key Western Australian laws relating to young people, alcohol possession, public drinking and supply. These laws are based on the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA).

Underage Drinking in Public Places

Young people under 18 cannot drink or possess alcohol in a public place such as streets, beaches, parks or public events. This includes in vehicles on roads.

  • Penalty: $200 infringement or up to $2,000 fine.

Public Drinking by Anyone (Adults Included)

It is illegal for any person to drink alcohol in a public place unless specifically permitted by a local authority.

  • Penalty: $200 infringement or up to $2,000 fine.

Supplying Alcohol to Young People (Secondary Supply Laws)

Supplying alcohol to anyone under 18 is illegal unless you are the parent or guardian, or you have their permission. Even with permission, supply is not allowed if:

  • the young person is intoxicated

  • the supplier is intoxicated

  • the parent or guardian giving permission is intoxicated

  • the supplier cannot adequately supervise consumption

  • Maximum penalty for illegal supply: $10,000.

Young People Buying or Attempting to Buy Alcohol

It is an offence for a young person to buy, attempt to buy, obtain or consume alcohol.

  • Penalty: $200 infringement or up to $2,000 fine.

Possession of Alcohol by Young People in Public

Young people under 18 cannot possess alcohol in a public place, even if unopened.

  • Penalty: $200 infringement or up to $2,000 fine.

Fake ID and Misuse of ID

If a young person uses fake ID or refuses to show ID when asked by police or licensed venue staff, they can:

  • receive a warning or caution

  • receive a $200 fine

  • face court with fines up to $2,000

How Parents Can Support Their Young Person Ahead of Leavers

Open conversations before Leavers help your young person feel prepared, informed and supported. Discussing alcohol and other drugs does not condone use. Instead, it shows you want them to have a fun and enjoyable celebration while staying safe.

For more information and helpful discussion tips, visit the Alcohol. Think Again website or the Report alcohol and tobacco offences Western Australian Government.