Boozing rates fall

IF excessive drinking used to be a badge of honour, it is more like a cause for shame among young people now, research shows.

A 10-year study commissioned by DrinkWise found 52 per cent of people were drinking to excess when they socialised 10 years ago but now only 33 per cent believe they do.

The research also found 20 per cent of Australians abstain from alcohol altogether, compared to 11 per cent in 2007.

Where and what we are drinking has changed, with 63 per cent of people choosing to drink at home rather than going out.