The objectives of this policy are to:

(a)     prevent harm from the consumption of alcohol;

(b)     set out the University’s commitment to provide an inclusive environment for all members of the University community who choose not to consume alcohol;

(c)     set out the University’s commitment to the responsible management of alcohol service and consumption; and

(d)     establish expectations of employees, students, managers and supervisors with respect to the service and consumption of alcohol while on University premises, performing duties for the University or representing the University.

This policy applies to:

(a)     all members of the University community, including students, employees, independent contractors, honoraries and visiting fellows;

(b)     visitors to the University;

(c)     University campuses, teaching sites and University-controlled residential accommodation services; 

(d)     events involving alcohol that are undertaken at University-controlled sites; and

(e)     events involving alcohol that are organised or controlled by the University, including University-controlled entities, University business operations and University clubs affiliated to the University through a student association.

This policy is made under the University of Melbourne Act 2009 (Vic) and the Vice-Chancellor Regulation and supports compliance with the:

(a)   Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 (Vic);

(b)   Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 (Vic);

(c)   Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (Vic); and

(d)   Summary Offences Act 1966 (Vic).

4.1.    The University aims to:

  (a)   ensure a safe working, learning and recreational environment which minimises alcohol-related harm to individuals and behaviour that may cause harm to other people or property;

  (b)   permit the responsible use of alcohol in an environment that is free of inducement and social pressure to consume it; and

  (c)   provide support services to assist employees and students with alcohol-related issues.

4.2.    Where persons are impaired due to the consumption of alcohol, the University:

  (a)   may request the person to leave the event or workplace until such time as they are no longer impaired; and

  (b)   will take reasonable steps to remove the person’s access to University vehicles and equipment until such time as they are no longer impaired.

4.3.    Where alcohol is consumed at a University event, the University expects that all people will conduct themselves in accordance with the requirements of the Appropriate Workplace Behaviour Policy and will remain courteous and appropriate at all times.

5.1.     Heads of divisions will ensure that alcohol is managed and used appropriately within their division by:

   (a)     assessing and determining the level of risk associated with service and/or consumption of alcohol in accordance with supporting processes;

   (b)     implementing appropriate management and mitigation strategies for the responsible service and/or consumption of alcohol;

   (c)     ensuring that a safe and welcoming environment is provided for persons who choose not to consume alcohol;

   (d)     ensuring that alcohol is not served to persons under 18 years of age or persons who are impaired by alcohol; and

   (e)     ensuring reasonable steps are taken to restrict alcohol impaired or intoxicated persons access to University vehicles and regulated plant and discourage such persons from driving private vehicles.

5.2.     Event managers will ensure that alcohol is managed and used appropriately at University events by:

   (a)     assessing and determining the level of risk associated with service and/or consumption of alcohol in accordance with supporting processes;

   (b)     implementing appropriate management and mitigation strategies for the responsible service and/or consumption of alcohol;

   (c)     ensuring that a safe and welcoming environment is provided for persons who choose not to consume alcohol;

   (d)     ensuring that alcohol is not served to persons under 18 years of age or persons who are impaired by alcohol; and

   (e)     ensuring reasonable steps are taken to restrict alcohol impaired or intoxicated persons access to University vehicles and regulated plant and discourage such persons from driving private vehicles.

5.3.   The University will provide support for employees and students who are experiencing alcohol-related issues, including addiction. This support may take the form of:

 (a)  referral to appropriate counselling or medical services;

 (b)  facilitation of time to attend treatment and management programs; or

 (c)  any other support that the University considers appropriate in the circumstances. 

Event manager means the person(s) responsible for the practical planning, management and supervision of a University event. The event manager is responsible for obtaining all necessary authorisations, approvals and licences for the event and for the safe conduct of the event by eliminating or minimising risks in accordance with risk management and mitigation strategies.

Regulated Plant means plant for which Part 3.5 Plant, of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations applies.  This includes, but is not limited to, plant that processes material by way of a mechanical action, pressure equipment, tractors, earthmoving machinery, lasers, scaffolds, temporary access equipment, explosive-powered tools, turbines and amusement structures.

Student Association means a student association recognised by University Council in accordance with Council Regulation 19. ie UMSU Incorporated, The University of Melbourne Graduate Student Association and The Melbourne University Sports Association.

University Affiliated Club means a club or association affiliated through a student association.

University event means any event that is organised or controlled by the University, including University-controlled entities, University business operations and University clubs affiliated through a student association.

Vice-President (Strategy & Culture)

Associate Director, Health and Safety

This policy is to be reviewed by 2 December 2021.