Younger generations of Australians are reducing their alcohol consumption at “unprecedented rates,” according to a new report from Adelaide’s Flinders University.
Researchers found Gen Z are not only more likely to decline a drink, but are consuming “significantly less” alcohol than any other generation.
The report’s authors said the findings highlight a “cultural shift” that could offer “major public health gains” if the pattern continues.
The Study
The study used data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, conducted annually since 2001.
Researchers analysed the drinking behaviours of 23,000 Australians aged over 18, dividing them into five groups:
- The Silent Generation (1928–1945)
- Baby Boomers (1946–1964)
- Generation X (1965–1980)
- Millennials (1981–1996)
- Generation Z (1997–2012)
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Findings
Gen Z were nearly 20 times more likely to decline a drink than Baby Boomers, and reported drinking the least alcohol on a weekly basis.
Millennials and Gen Z were predicted to avoid alcohol at “significantly higher rates” over their lifetime, compared to older generations.
While they drank less overall, Gen Z and Millennials joined Gen X in drinking the most per occasion.
Researchers said a decline in “regular heavy drinking” across all age groups could signal “a broader cultural shift.”
Comments
Researchers said the report’s findings could help inform future health policies, particularly for older Aussies who “may still be at risk of alcohol-related harm.”
Lead author Dr Gianluca Di Censo said the behavioural changes could deliver “long-term public health benefits.”
“If we can understand what’s driving this decline in alcohol use among younger people, whether it’s economic pressures, social norms, or policy changes, we can use that knowledge to support healthier behaviours across all age groups,” Dr Di Censo said.
