So how much do we really drink in Australia?

According to the latest research by Roy Morgan Research, alcohol is consumed by 68 percent of Australian in any four week period. The really interesting fact from this research is that in that four week period the average number of glasses consumed per person is nearly 24 glasses.

Although only slightly, it is the Australians over 30 who drink more than those aged 18 to 29 – 69 percent to 66.

The older Australians also prefer to drink at home, whereas those under 30 seem to want to drink “on premises” more.

The following is the breakdown of drink preferences from the surveyed group;

1. 30 and older
   1. Wine – 48 percent
   2. Ready to Drinks (RTEs) – eight percent
   3. Cider – eight percent
   4. White spirits – nine percent
   5. Rum – four percent
   6. Beer – 36 percent
   7. Dark spirits – 17 percent
2. 18-29 years old
   1. Wine – 32 percent
   2. Ready to Drinks (RTEs) – 20 percent
   3. Cider – 20 percent
   4. White spirits – 22 percent
   5. Rum – 10 percent
   6. Beer – 39 percent
   7. Dark spirits – 21 percent

So older Australians seem to generally prefer wine and beer and younger Australians like everything else, and beer.

The Roy Morgan Research Group Account Director, Angela Smith, said; “Young people are often portrayed as binge-drinkers in the media, but our latest data shows that slightly more Australians aged 30 and older drink alcohol in an average four weeks than their younger counterparts. However, it should be noted that this result primarily reflects the comparatively high proportion of Australians 30+ who consume wine.”

Ms Smith said; “To remain competitive in today’s crowded alcohol market, beverage marketers and licensed premises need to have a detailed knowledge of the demographics, attitudes and activities of their target market so they can tailor their communications accordingly.”

Written by Rachelle Williams, The Green Food Safety Coach.