Supplying alcohol to minors
Part of the Crime topic
Understand what supplying alcohol to minors is, and what you must do and cannot do to follow the law in Queensland.
In short
Supplying alcohol to minors is giving alcohol to a person under the age of 18. It is illegal to supply alcohol to minors in Queensland, except under specific circumstances in private places.
Penalties for breaking the law include fines and imprisonment.
This page provides a summary of Queensland's laws on supplying alcohol to a minor. It's not exhaustive and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified legal professional for comprehensive information or matter-specific advice.
You must
To comply with the law in Queensland you must:
- check identification before allowing minors to enter licensed venues or being served alcohol.
You cannot
To comply with the law in Queensland you cannot:
- allow minors to enter licensed venues unless exemptions apply
- sell or supply alcohol to minors in licensed venues, even during underage or all-ages events.
Exceptions and special circumstances
You can supply alcohol to a minor in a private place if you:
- are their responsible adult, for example parent, step-parent, or guardian
- provide responsible supervision, considering factors such as the minor’s age, level of intoxication, and the amount of alcohol supplied.
Minors can work on licensed premises as long as it doesn’t operate under an adult entertainment permit. The minor must have a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate if they are serving or supplying alcohol.
Managed by: Department of Justice