Tax potent brews to cut binge drinking: study
Jill Stark; 31/7/08
Overhauling Australia’s alcohol taxation system would save the Federal Government almost $60 million and would be the most cost-effective way to reduce binge drinking, according to new research. Taxing beer, wine and spirits by alcohol content would dramatically reduce the burden on the health system, the report claims. A study based on World Health Organisation modelling has found that Australia’s problem drinkers would consume less and alcohol-related injuries, accidents and disease would plummet if booze was more expensive. Under a volumetric system, products would be taxed according to potency so that stronger drinks such as cask wine would cost more.
See: http://www.theage.com.au/national/tax-potent-brews-to-cut-binge-drinking-study-20080730-3nhv.html