The Cost of Alcohol to Australian Workplaces

Alcohol consumption is a major public health issue in Australia. Nearly 1 in 4 Australians drink at levels that place them at risk of harm over their lifetime. In the workplace, alcohol-related harm can impact productivity, absenteeism, presenteeism, safety, and mental health.

For employers, the numbers are significant:

Alcohol costs Australian businesses over $3.5 billion annually in lost productivity.

1 in 10 workers report being affected by a co-worker’s alcohol use.

Industries with high-pressure or social drinking cultures are particularly at risk.

Creating an environment that encourages awareness and low-risk drinking habits can directly improve employee wellbeing, reduce risk, and enhance your team culture.

What Is Dry July?

Dry July is a fundraising campaign that challenges Australians to go alcohol-free for the month of July. Participants raise money to support people affected by cancer while also reaping the health benefits of taking a break from drinking.

These benefits can include:

  • Improved sleep and concentration
  • Better hydration and energy levels
  • A stronger immune system
  • Lowered anxiety and improved mental clarity
  • Saving money and gaining a sense of achievement

Dry July is also a great opportunity to reflect on drinking habits and reset social norms around alcohol.

How Businesses Can Support Workers Doing Dry July

As an employer, you play a vital role in creating a supportive environment that helps employees stick with their Dry July goals. Here are some ways to do that:

Encourage Participation (Without Pressure)

Make space in internal communications for Dry July shoutouts or goal-setting, but always keep it voluntary.

Swap Out Alcohol-Focused Culture Cues

Replace Friday drinks with team breakfasts, mocktail afternoons, or wellness-themed activities. A small change in social rituals can make a big difference.

Provide Education and Resources

Help your team understand the impact of alcohol through awareness materials and relevant health messaging.

Share the Cause

If your team is raising funds, consider matching donations or showcasing employees' fundraising pages internally.

Check in with Your Team

Dry July can stir up all sorts of thoughts around health, lifestyle, and mental wellbeing. Encourage open dialogue and offer access to confidential support services or workplace health consultations if needed.

Free Resources for Your Workplace

We’ve created two downloadable posters to help you support your team this Dry July and beyond:

The Impact of Alcohol on your Body PosterDownload Alcohol Impact Poster - July Health Calendar

The Effect of Stopping Drinking Alcohol Poster

Download Alcohol Impact Poster - July Health Calendar

At Employ Health, we work with businesses around Australia to improve workplace wellbeing, reduce health risks, and create supportive, healthy environments. Dry July is one small but powerful way your business can start that conversation.

If you’re interested in running a workplace health campaign, or want to find out more about our Onsite Physiotherapy, or Alcohol Awareness education, get in touch with our team today.

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