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Home > Patrons > Drink spiking - don't let it happen to you

Drink spiking - don't let it happen to you

Drink spiking happens when alcohol or another substance (eg. a drug) is added to your drink without your knowledge.

Drink spiking is illegal but it happens. It’s a very dangerous practice that can lead to:

The majority of victims are female and many know their attacker. There have even been cases reported of women being photographed in compromising positions and the photographs then being posted on the internet.

Drinks most commonly spiked are alcoholic but incidents have occurred with soft drinks, tea, coffee and hot chocolate.

Drink spiking doesn’t just happen in noisy, crowded nightclubs. It also happens at private parties and quiet venues.

Never leave your drink unattended, avoid sharing drinks, don’t accept drinks from strangers or people you don’t know very well and don’t drink something you didn’t see poured or opened. If your drink tastes strange, throw it away.

If you feel sick or dizzy, ask someone you trust to take you to a safe place and always look out for your friends.  
 
For more information, including more tips on how to prevent drink spiking, view the Liquor Licensing Division drink spiking fact sheet (PDF 88.0kb).

For more information and support, telephone the 24-hour Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120.

Last updated 28 June 2005.