To prevent the short- and long-term harm that can be associated with early initiation to alcohol and other drug use, it is important to communicate with young people so they know the facts about these substances and how to stay safe.

Most people are aware that illicit drug use is not the norm among our teens, but it is also important to acknowledge that growing numbers of young Australians are choosing not to drink alcohol.

Teenage parties provide young people with valuable opportunities to develop a range of social skills that they need to relate effectively with their peers. As they get older, alcohol is likely to become a part of these social gatherings and, unfortunately, things can go wrong.