This paper is concerned with the arguments and evidence that support the use of alcohol taxation as a primary health care intervention. Taxation is treated as a policy option that may be subject to cost-benefit analysis. While overseas evidence is used, the article draws primarily upon the authors' earlier estimates of the cost of alcohol consumption and the effects of taxation in Australia. In addition, the paper considers the main arguments used against alcohol taxation for health policy. It is concluded that the arguments cannot be substantiated and that there is a strong case for increased alcohol taxes.