Fed up with out-of-control drinking, the Australian government has put in place series of measures to curb it. -- ST FILE PHOTO
March: Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced a A$55 million (S$54 million) campaign against bingeing, complete with an advertising blitz and grants to community groups.
April: Mr Rudd's government went ahead with an increase in the tax on pre-mixed alcoholic drinks, which are sweet, bottled drinks popular with young people.
May: The southern state of Victoria joined the battle with a three-month ban on people entering Melbourne pubs after 2am, prompting a protest that drew thousands.
Last month: New South Wales Premier Nathan Rees heralded what he called a 'new era' by imposing strict conditions on 50 of the state's most notorious pubs, including shorter business hours and the mandatory use of plastic cups after midnight, rather than glasses.
