Are younger or older Australians more likely to experience alcohol-related physical abuse?
Australians aged 25-29 years are the age group most likely to experience physical abuse by someone under the influence of alcohol. From 30 years of age, the incidence of alcohol-related physical abuse declines with age.
In Australia, 3%* of 14-17 year olds experienced alcohol-related physical abuse in the past 12 months, compared to 8% of 18-24 year olds; 9% of 25-29 year olds; 5% of 30-39 year olds; 5% of 40-49 year olds; 4% of 50-59 year olds; 2% of 60-69 year olds; and 2% of 70+ year olds.
* Estimate has a relative standard error of 25% to 50% and should be used with caution.
Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). 2019 National Drug Strategy Household Survey.
Physical Abuse: An act which causes pain and/or injury to the victim.
Under the Influence of Alcohol: There is no single objective standard for being under the influence of alcohol. Similarly, data sources used in the NADK do not provide a definition of this term. It is popularly understood as referring to an individual who has consumed enough alcohol to impair their mental, physical, and/or cognitive faculties. However, definitions and standards may vary between jurisdictions, sectors and organisations.