Policies addressing alcohol-related violence among young people: A gendered analysis based on two Australian states

Abstract

Policies targeting alcohol-related violence among young adults are the subject of methodological and political contest and often encounter resistance. Young males are overrepresented in alcohol-related health and social problems, so policies could reasonably figure the availability of alcohol-and gender roles-as targets of change. We analyse recent policy trajectories in two Australian states: New South Wales and Victoria. Both have implemented licence restrictions in late-night entertainment precincts, but in Victoria, resistance to these policies made them unworkable. A new framework emphasised culture change, and gender norms were brought into view. In New South Wales, restrictions reduced violence but also restricted nightlife for the majority of drinkers who were not violent. Intractable ambiguities around alcohol-related violence ensure ongoing political contest.