The Rise of Online Alcohol Delivery

Overview

• Significant growth in online alcohol delivery services in Australia.
• Established retailers have expanded online operations; new companies have emerged.
• Revenue from online alcohol sales increased by 19.1% annually since 2016, reaching $1.8 billion in 2021.
• Concerns regarding potential increase in alcohol-related harms.

How Online Alcohol Delivery Works

• Dominated by large supermarket chains and independent entities.
• Main players include Endeavor Group, Coles Group, and smaller retailers.
• Models of delivery: rapid delivery (within 30 minutes), same-day delivery, and next-day delivery.

Potential Harms of Online Delivery

Delivery to Under 18s

• Issues with inadequate ID checks during online purchases and delivery.
• Studies show significant non-compliance with age verification.
• Potential for increased underage and risky drinking.

Impact of COVID-19

• COVID-19 led to a surge in online alcohol sales.
• Aggressive marketing practices by retailers during the pandemic.
• Increase in alcohol use linked to social isolation and stress.

Intoxicated People and High-Risk Drinkers

• Easily accessible by intoxicated individuals, increasing risks of harm.
• Rapid delivery services linked to very risky drinking behaviors.

Marketing Strategies and Pricing

• Promotions and discounts encourage larger purchases, potentially exacerbating harms.
• Price is a critical factor in alcohol-related harms.

Secondary Supply

• Law prohibits adults from supplying alcohol to minors.
• Online delivery complicates enforcement of secondary supply laws.

Access Hours and Increased Availability

• Online delivery increases accessibility, especially at night.
• Higher availability linked to alcohol-related harms.

Recommendations for Good Practice

• Suggestions include a minimum delay between purchase and delivery, proper RSA training for drivers, restricted delivery hours, and thorough ID checks.

Support and Resources

• List of support services and hotlines for those affected by alcohol use.
• Online tool Path2Help for personalized support information.

References

• Cited studies and reports from various organizations and research institutions.