The controversial alcopops tax is in doubt, with the Federal Opposition planning to block the measure in the Senate.
Liberal Leader Brendan Nelson has convened his own forum in Canberra today, speaking with health professionals and young people about binge drinking.
But there has been criticism from Health Minister Nicola Roxon who called the forum "a stunt" after pointing out key supporters of Labor's alcopops tax were not invited.
Dr Nelson has told Luke Bona the forum has been useful, and supports evidence that the 70 per cent tax on pre-mixed drinks will lead to unsafe consumption of hard liquor.
"The ready-to-drinks, or alcopops, have basically shrunk in terms of sales while full bottle spirits are walking out the door."
The Coalition will now develop it's own policy, with plans to limit alcohol in pre-mixed drinks, and ban certain products with high levels of sugar and other stimulants.
Mr Nelson denies the coalition is being obstructionist by threatening to block the alcopop tax, as well as a raft of other key budget measures in the Senate.
The government faces a budget shortfall running into billions of dollars because of opposition plans to block the alcopop tax, an increase in the Medicare levy surcharge threshold and possibly the luxury car tax.
The coalition has also confirmed it will block changes to the commonwealth seniors health card.
Dr Nelson says the government did not announce before the election it was going to increase taxes by $19.5 billion.