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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are advised that this website contains the names and images of people who have passed
67
Research program to monitor consequences of alcohol use
That the National Drug Abuse Data System of the NCADA institute a regular research program to establish baseline data and monitor changes over time in relation to the health, social and economic consequences of alcohol use among Aboriginal people.
Aboriginal Justice Caucus Assessment
Recommendation 67 was a Commonwealth Government responsibility.
Background
The Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (RCIADIC) emphasised the lack of data on the economic impact of alcohol use and the levels of expenditure on alcoholic beverages. It noted that while Aboriginal people bear the social and health costs of alcohol misuse, they do not share in the economic benefits of the alcohol industry. The Commission also emphasised the culturally specific harms of alcohol in Aboriginal communities, including its role in disrupting ceremonies and contributing to family and community breakdown. The RCIADIC recommended a dedicated research program to track these impacts over time and inform more effective, culturally appropriate responses.
Actions Taken Since Last Review
Department of Health
In their 2025 response, the Department of Health deemed this recommendation a Commonwealth Government responsibility and considered it fully implemented. They noted that the department has not commissioned any comprehensive alcohol related research in relation to Aboriginal cohorts in Victoria.