Changing Australian Workplace Drinking Culture: A Call for a Healthier and Inclusive Approach

Australia’s leading Grey Area Drinking Coach, Sarah Rusbatch, is championing the need for a transformative shift in Australian workplace drinking culture.

With workplace celebrations, networking events, and knock-off gatherings predominantly revolving around alcohol, there exists a prevalent phenomenon of ‘sober shaming’, placing pressure on individuals who choose not to drink.

“Australian workplaces need to recognise the adverse effects of excessive alcohol consumption and strive towards fostering a healthier culture, free from the compulsion to drink,” she says.

“With more and more younger Australians choosing not to drink, many are looking for workplace cultures that foster a healthier way of socialising. By redirecting our focus towards inclusive and mindful choices, we can unlock enhanced productivity, promote employee wellbeing, and ensure workplace safety.”

Rusbatch says many workers face negative pushback for NOT drinking at work-related functions.

"Alcohol is the only drug we have to justify not taking," she says. "Workers often feel compelled to conform, assimilate into the team, and conform to the widely held belief that drinking is the only way to celebrate or socialise in Australia."

She asserts the need to prioritise employee wellbeing, safety, and respect for personal choices. "It is possible to strike a balance between nurturing a positive work culture and addressing the risks associated with alcohol misuse."

Alcohol has now been linked to over 60 diseases and health risks, and Australia has been named the country with the biggest binge-drinking culture in the world.

“It’s time for a change.” She says.

“I regularly work with individuals who feel pressured to drink at work functions and ostracised for choosing not to drink. It simply isn’t acceptable in today’s world.”

Rusbatch urges organizations to explore alternative social activities that foster team bonding and engagement without relying on alcohol.

She recommends incorporating:

• Team-building exercises

• Outdoor adventures

• Wellness programs into workplace events

"By offering a diverse range of activities, we can establish an inclusive environment where employees can connect and socialize based on their individual preferences."

The prevalence of Australian drinking culture presents significant challenges for workplaces, resulting in an estimated annual loss of $6 billion in productivity and a staggering 2.5 million working days lost, amounting to a cost exceeding $680 million.

Additionally, 1 in 10 workers acknowledges that their performance, safety, and workload were negatively impacted by a coworker's alcohol usage.

Rusbatch recently worked with Mining giant, Fortescue Group to offer wellbeing presentations on the topic of Grey Area Drinking at all of their WA mine sites, with strong feedback from those who attended.

“It's up to Australian organizations to take proactive steps toward reforming workplace drinking culture by embracing alternative approaches that prioritize employee wellbeing, create an inclusive atmosphere, and foster a healthier, more productive work environment.”

Sarah offers Workplace Wellbeing Presentations on Grey Area Drinking as well as Corporate 30-Day Alcohol Free Challenges. Contact Sarah at hello@sarahrusbatch.com for her Corporate Wellbeing Presentation Pack.