Content warning: This article discusses domestic, family and sexual violence, and alcohol use.
Millions of fans gathered for State of Origin game one this week, crowding around the TV or taking a seat at the stadium. But for many more, this week is a reminder to prepare for the worst.
For women and children experiencing gender-based violence across the country, sporting events mean they are at even greater risk.
Evidence shows violence against women and children spikes around major events like State of Origin game night, where there is a 40% increase in domestic violence in NSW. On AFL Grand Final night in Victoria, police see a 20% increase in callouts.
Sport is an integral part of Australian culture. It brings communities together, ignites passion and platforms the role models that shape children and young people’s lives and interests.
We know the alcohol industry has entrenched itself into this beloved part of Australian culture. They have embedded their marketing on jerseys, stadiums and ads on TV, and advertised their products as essential before, during and after a match – win or lose.
This didn’t happen by accident.
It’s a considered, deliberate tactic used by the alcohol industry for decades. When their harmful products are embedded in the sport we love, it helps their bottom line. But it harms our communities.
This linking of our most popular sports with alcohol normalises alcohol use.
Alcohol’s role in sport matters for the safety of women and children.
Alcohol is a major contributing factor to gender-based violence across Australia. It’s involved in up to half of reports to police.
Alcohol exacerbates and intensifies the violence many women and children experience.
When alcohol as a normal part of everyday life is reinforced through sport, alongside harmful ideas about masculinity and aggression, it promotes a culture where violence is more likely to happen.
The accessibility and availability of alcohol also contribute to alcohol-related violence. Rapid home delivery has increased in the past few years with very few checks and balances.
This unfettered access to alcohol, particularly late at night, puts women and children at greater risk.
When this is coupled with a culture that normalises alcohol use around sport, it leads to further harm.
The good news is we already know the steps governments must take to address this.
In 2024, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appointed a panel of experts to examine how to prevent gender-based violence.
The expert panel recommended:
- Limits on alcohol ads, especially during sport
- Stronger measures in place on alcohol home delivery
- For every state and territory’s liquor laws to be updated to prioritise preventing gender-based violence, and;
- For the alcohol industry to be held accountable for their harmful products
Since 2024, the response from leaders hasn’t reflected the crisis we are witnessing.
Every government, every decision-maker can act. They must move swiftly. In a crisis of this magnitude, anything less is entirely unacceptable.
If you or someone you know needs support, please call Lifeline 13 11 14, the National 24/7 Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800 250 015 or 1800RESPECT 1800 737 732.
