Risky and high risk drinking by young people and underage drinkers has become a major public health issue. This report investigates the data on consumption patterns and evidence supporting the government's proposed increase in excise, which the committee supports in the context of a range of measures undertaken or to be considered to address harmful...

Commonwealth, state and territory governments share the responsibility for providing disability support services in Australia. Governments also provide a range of mainstream services that indirectly impact on people with disabilities, for example, various health programs. This mix of mainstream and disability-specific services at the local and federal level makes it difficult to get a clear...

The committee was directed to examine ongoing efforts towards improving mental health services in Australia, with reference to the National Action Plan on Mental Health agreed upon at the July 2006 meeting of the Council of Australian Governments, particularly examining the commitments and contributions of the different levels of government with regard to their respective...

The committee was directed to examine the effectiveness of the broadcasting codes of practice operating within the radio and television industry, with particular reference to the frequency and use of coarse and foul language (swearing) in programs; the effectiveness of the current classification standards as an accurate reflection of the content contained in the program...

In a wealthy country like Australia, no citizens should be forced into homelessness. A reasonable standard of housing should be achievable for all. A small number will need to be assisted with accommodation by governments or community organisations. Many will prefer rental accommodation for its flexibility or as a stepping stone to ownership. But it...