Alcohol and other drug use by Australian workers: insights from a nationally representative cross-sectional survey

Abstract

In the Australian population, a substantial number of people consume alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATODs). As most people who use ATOD are employed, the workplace is an environment through which ATOD primary and secondary preventive health interventions can be implemented. However, resource allocation can be informed by research that determines priority industries and occupations, as indicated by the prevalence of ATOD use, numbers of users, and likelihood of use (i.e. adjusted odds ratios). A secondary analysis of the 2022-23 Australian National Drug Strategy Household Survey was conducted to assess risky alcohol consumption, current smoking, and illicit drug use (past 12 months) across different industries and occupations. There were 16,281 participants for industry analyses and 17,247 participants for occupation analyses. Survey-weighted estimations of the number and prevalence of individuals who consumed ATOD were performed, followed by a series of survey-weighted logistic regression analyses to identify industries and occupations associated with increased likelihood of ATOD use. Across all substances, the industries with the highest prevalence of ATOD use were mining, construction, and accommodation and food services, while occupations with the highest estimated prevalence were technicians and trades workers and labourers. Conversely, health care and social support, along with construction, exhibited the highest estimated number of ATOD users. The adjusted regression models revealed substantial variation in the industries and occupation types associated with heightened likelihood of ATOD use. This study provides important evidence for prioritizing industries and occupations most likely to benefit from ATOD interventions.

Keywords: Australian workforce; alcohol; illicit drug; occupation-related risk; sector differences; tobacco; workplace health.