ASTRA stars on alcohol ban this year

Australian stars at this year's TV ASTRA awards have been warned not to drink too much alcohol, it has been reported.

Bosses have allegedly been ordered to give the event a sober overhaul after various presenters swore at the lectern and became increasingly intoxicated as the night progressed last year.

CEO Petra Buchanan told The Daily Telegraph: "The board... were unhappy with some aspects of last year's awards and it would be naive to say there was no reflection about past incidents and I was fortunate because I could bring a fresh perspective."

Last year, radio star Merrick Watts admitted that he was drunk at the event, while his then-partner Tim Ross made derogatory comments about women and swore on stage.

Brian McFadden allegedly drank beers between his appearances on stage, while Underbelly star Matthew Newton did a star turn over his seat.