Parents and guardians
Many parents dread the approach of Schoolies. They understand that their teenagers want to celebrate the end of their exams and school days. But parents worry that their child may be injured or assaulted during Schoolies. They worry about binge-drinking, drink-spiking and drug-taking. They also worry about the uninvited hangers-on, or toolies, who often bring trouble with them when they try to join the party.
The government does not promote participation in Schoolies but seeks to enhance the safety and responsible behaviour of school-leavers at Schoolies and to minimise disruption to local communities.
The Queensland Government has developed 'The Parent's Guide to Alcohol and a Safer Schoolies' to help parents manage the challenges of Schoolies. It can be obtained by phoning 13 13 04 or you can order a copy of the guide from the Queensland Government Bookshop.
What support will be available for teenagers during Schoolies?
As part of the Safer Schoolies Initiative, a range of safety and support services will be provided at the key Schoolies destinations in Queensland. More information on each Schoolies location is available at Airlie Beach, the Gold Coast, Magnetic Island and Yeppoon.
Each Safer Schoolies location has its own access requirements, but all require proof of student photo ID to take advantage of the free activities and safety responses being offered. To find out more information visit Access and Identification.
Police, emergency services, security, volunteers and officials will maintain a highly visible presence, providing schoolies with medical assistance, general support and advice.
Free transport will be available for legitimate schoolies, providing safe transportation between major accommodation venues and activities.
Is it okay for parents to buy alcohol for their teenager to take on Schoolies?
NO! Providing alcohol to underage children where there is no responsible supervision is not only dangerous, it is illegal.
Penalties are high - get caught providing alcohol to your underage child for consumption in an unsupervised environment and you will face penalties of up to $8000.
Adults must provide responsible supervision to minors when supplying alcohol for consumption in private places such as parties or Schoolies.
Police can seize alcohol that has the potential to cause harm to minors or that is being recklessly provided to minors. Police can also confiscate alcohol in cars and public places and dispose of alcohol they reasonably suspect is destined for unsupervised consumption by minors.
Police and Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation inspectors will be on the lookout for underage drinkers during Schoolies.
What are the major alcohol and drug issues that parents should talk about with their teenager?
- Underage drinking or possession of liquor in a public place could result in a fine of up to $2500.
- If your teenager is underage and found in licensed premises, they could be fined up to $2500.
- Drink-spiking can happen - remind your teenager to keep their drink with them at all times and not accept drinks from people they don't know or trust.
- Talk to your teenager about knowing their limits. If they choose to drink alcohol, discuss being responsible. Simple tips for you to share include limiting drinks, know their strength, have water between drinks, eat something, and know that only time will make you sober.
- Illicit drugs have no manufacturing controls. You can never be sure what you are getting. They are extremely dangerous, particularly when mixed with alcohol.
- In Queensland, 17-year-olds convicted of drug offences are tried through the adult court system - drug convictions can affect employment options and the ability to travel overseas.
For more information, download a copy of the parents fact sheet) | ().
Last reviewed: 01 October 2009
