Alcohol dependence in South Australia is being tackled by the introduction of a ban on high strength beer, it has been revealed. The town of Ceduna, on the west coast of the state, has vowed to crack down on cases of alcohol abuse, ABC News reports.

However, a rule introduced that sees Aborigines only able to purchase low-strength beer, is being "circumvented" by residents. Senior Sergeant Tom Rieniets told the information provider that people are buying the stronger beverages and giving it to the indigenous population. "They are seriously harming their health in many cases and these measures are designed to alleviate that problem," he added. Two people may be prosecuted over their role in such activities, he remarked. It was recently observed that there are "worrying" levels of alcohol dependence in the Australian Army, with Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie commenting that he could no longer hold his tongue over the issue. Posted by Alf Jarrod