Always respect, always DrinkWise

Each year in the lead up to NRL State of Origin, the NRL and AFL Finals series and Gather Round, some of the game’s heavyweights and archrivals join with DrinkWise, State Police forces, governments and support services to remind the community to Always respect, always DrinkWise. These whole-of-community collaborations remind sports fans about the importance of moderating their alcohol consumption (if choosing to drink) and always being respectful towards others.
To continue to remind NRL fans and the broader community about the importance of moderating their alcohol consumption, always being respectful toward others and asking for help if needed, ahead of game one of the NRL State of Origin series, DrinkWise has teamed up with NRL Immortal Mal Meninga, Queensland Government, Support services (1800RESPECT, the No to Violence – Men’s Referral Service and 13YARN), the NRL, retailers (Coles Liquor, Endeavour Group, Retail Drinks Australia), with support from Clubs Queensland, Queensland Hotels Association, ClubsNSW and other venue operators.
This campaign serves as an ongoing reminder that if people are having trouble managing their consumption or their behaviour and their choices are impacting on the safety of family or others, asking for help is okay and there are support of services available that can provide advice and assistance.
DrinkWise research shows that the overwhelming majority of NRL fans support responsible drinking, with 90% reporting they typically drink responsibly at sporting events and 95% believing it’s important for others to do the same. Furthermore, 93% of fans agree that excessive drinking can spoil the enjoyment of a sporting event, underscoring the strong community desire for a respectful and positive atmosphere*.
With some NRL fans believing that having a drink or two is part of Australian tradition, ongoing education surrounding moderation throughout the series is important.
DrinkWise Chief Executive Officer Simon Strahan said: “State of Origin is a highlight of the Australian sporting calendar and the Always respect, always DrinkWise campaign is all about reminding fans to enjoy every moment by making safe and responsible decisions. We don’t want to moderate the excitement around Origin, but we do want people to moderate their consumption.
“Whether you’re at Suncorp Stadium, a licensed venue or watching from home, the message is clear: celebrate Origin but do so in a way that ensures you and everyone around you has a great experience, so be respectful to those around you and reach out to support services if you need help or advice.”
Support from NRL Immortal and Australian Kangaroos head coach Mal Meninga
Mal Meninga is throwing his support behind the Always respect, always DrinkWise campaign, encouraging everyone to embrace the atmosphere and for those who choose to drink, to do so in moderation.
“State of Origin is one of the biggest events on the sporting calendar. It’s a time that brings mates and families together to celebrate the passion and rivalry that make rugby league and Origin so special. But it’s about creating an atmosphere that will have every passionate fan – whether supporting the Maroons or the Blues – having experienced a great game, which means moderating your consumption if drinking and respecting those around you. Origin is about creating great memories and that is only possible if it’s a safe, enjoyable environment for everyone.”
Mal Meninga.
Support services back the Always respect, always DrinkWise message
DrinkWise has again partnered with 1800RESPECT, the No to Violence – Men’s Referral Service and 13YARN to ensure the Always respect, always DrinkWise campaign also serves as a reminder that seeking help is encouraged. If you or someone you know is struggling with managing alcohol consumption or behaviour, especially when these choices impact the safety of their family or others, you are encouraged to visit our support services page for a range of support services or contact one of the following services directly:

If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au.
If you are a person impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence, including those supporting someone, please contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au for online chat and video call services.

If you or someone you know is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping, call 13YARN on 13 92 76 or visit 13yarn.org.au.
Support from Government
The NRL State of Origin Always respect, always DrinkWise campaign has the backing of the Queensland Government.
![]() |
Queensland Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said:
“Origin means everything to Queenslanders. But win or lose, what matters most is how we celebrate. “Safe, respectable and responsible behaviour ensures everyone can share in the spirit of Origin and make it a night to remember for all the right reasons. For those choosing to have a drink while watching the game, make sure it’s in moderation.” |
The campaign - getting the message out
The Always respect, always DrinkWise campaign messaging will be promoted in the lead up to and during NRL State of Origin matches via:
- Television, press and radio coverage (to raise awareness and understanding of the Always respect, always DrinkWise message amongst NRL fans and the broader community).
- Geo-targeted social media awareness messages featuring NRL Immortal and Australian Kangaroos head coach Mal Meninga sent to fans (to encourage fans to celebrate responsibly)
- Always respect, always DrinkWise messaging displayed in Coles Liquor, Endeavour Group and Retail Drinks Australia member venues, with support from Clubs Queensland, Queensland Hotels Association, ClubsNSW and other venue operators, licensed pubs and bottle shops (to help reach fans choosing to drink about expected behaviours at the point of purchase).
- SEN during State of Origin match radio broadcasting (to help reach fans during the game).
- Social media messaging and the digital channels of the Queensland Government, the NRL, DrinkWise, 1800RESPECT, Men’s Referral Service and 13YARN (to highlight the community-based efforts to encourage responsible consumption and respectful behaviour).
