Australian men are once again being encouraged to take the Dry July challenge, go alcohol-free for a month, and use the opportunity to reset their habits. While the fundraiser supports vital cancer services, it also shines a light on the rising concern of alcohol-related harm among men, and the benefits of even a short break from drinking.
As Dry July 2025 approaches, Australian men are once again being encouraged to go alcohol-free for a month, and use the opportunity to reset their habits. While the fundraiser supports people affected by cancer, it also shines a light on the rising concern of alcohol-related harm among men, and the benefits of even a short break from drinking or cutting back.
Why Men Need to Rethink Their Relationship with Alcohol
According to the Ten to Men longitudinal study (October 2020), around one in three Australian men consume alcohol at levels associated with medium to high risk. The health impacts are serious, ranging from increased risk of accidents and injuries to chronic diseases like liver damage and alcohol-related cancers.
Recent Australian Bureau of Statistics data reveals that men account for 7 in 10 alcohol-related deaths, with around 25 men losing their lives each week from alcohol-induced causes.
A 4-Week Circuit Breaker for Health
Dry July offers a practical and powerful way for men to take charge of their health, test their drinking habits, and make meaningful change. It’s just 31 days, but the impact can go much further.
Beyond going dry, the campaign invites participants to fundraise for cancer-related charities, and this year men have the option to support organisations like the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA). With over 26,000 Australian men expected to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2025, funds raised help ensure that patients and their families have access to vital care, including PCFA nurses.
From the Pub to Purpose: A Movement Rooted in Mateship
Dry July started back in 2008 with three mates - Brett, Kenny and Phil - who gave up alcohol for a month to raise money for their local hospital. Their modest goal of $3,000 was blown out of the water when they raised $250,000, aided by support from comedian Adam Spencer, now Dry July’s patron.
Their idea tapped into something powerful: reciprocity - the idea that helping others can be a path to helping yourself. Today, Dry July continues to embody that spirit, with thousands of Australians taking part each year.
What You Might Gain by Giving It Up
Dry July participants frequently report a long list of health benefits from their month off booze, including:
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Clearer thinking
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Better sleep
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More energy
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Weight loss
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Improved skin
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A strong sense of achievement
And the effects often go beyond July. According to Dry July’s post-campaign research:
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74% of participants say the experience changed their outlook on alcohol
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97% had a positive experience overall
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92% have considered going alcohol-free more often
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79% say they’ll drink less moving forward
A Healthy Step for the Long Haul
While Dry July is focused on a one-month challenge, the message is broader: moderating alcohol is good for your health all year round. The campaign encourages responsible drinking and reminds participants that if they are heavy or dependent drinkers, they should consult a GP before signing up.
Learn more or sign up today at: dryjuly.com