Learn what’s legal and what’s not
There are strong fines and penalties for illegally supplying alcohol to anyone under 18.
Parents and caregivers can choose if their teenager drinks at home or another private residence, but only with responsible supervision.
This means adults must:
- stay sober
- actively supervise teenagers
- provide food, water and non-alcoholic options
- prevent anyone (teens or adults) from getting drunk.
If under-18s are drinking at your home, you are responsible for all of them.
What parents need to know:
- The safest option for under-18s is not drinking alcohol
- Alcohol can harm the developing brain and increase the risk of injury
- Giving alcohol to a minor without permission from their parent or caregiver is illegal
- Alcohol cannot be supplied to under-18s at halls, warehouses, licensed venues or organised events.
Penalties apply:
- Teenagers: fines up to $2,500
- Adults: fines up to $10,000