Server intervention: what chance in Australia?

Abstract

There is some evidence from studies in the USA and Canada that server intervention programs are effective in reducing alcohol consumption on licensed premises which, it is claimed, will lead to a reduction in the incidence of drink driving and other alcohol‐related problems. Unfortunately, due to the relative newness of server intervention programs, there is little or no evidence to support such claims. Given this fact, and given that there is an emerging interest in server intervention programs in Australia, it is pertinent to address the question of whether or not server intervention programs are likely to ever be a viable prevention strategy here. It is argued that until steps are taken to overcome a number of impediments—such as the existing licensing laws, some elements of the alcohol industry resistant to change, a lack of community awareness, and a lack of interest by researchers—then such programs are unlikely to eventuate here. The various impediments are discussed and it is suggested that to overcome them will require a coordinated approach involving policy makers, police, the alcohol industry, educators and researchers. Based on experience elsewhere it is argued that server intervention programs should be aimed at the level of the local community. It is concluded that server intervention programs have the potential to become a major prevention initiative in Australia, but only if the various impediments can be overcome, and if present and future legislative provisions are enforced.