The Territory Labor Government is undertaking a range of activities to reduce alcohol related harm within the community.
As part of this work, the Northern Territory Government has completed a three year review into the Liquor Act 2019.
The Act came into effect on 1 October 2019, and represents one of the most significant initiatives on alcohol reform in the Territory's history.
It has been reviewed to determine whether the policy objectives of the Act remain valid, and whether the terms of the legislative framework are still appropriate. The review ensured the Liquor Act is effective in recognising the public's interest in the sale, supply, service, promotion and responsible consumption of liquor.
The Review examined a wide range of information and explored views through consultation with businesses, industry groups, government and non-government organisations and the community, and determined the policy objectives of the Act remain valid and the terms largely remain appropriate for achieving those objectives.
However consideration should be given to amending some aspects of the Act as set out in the summary report.
The Northern Territory Government will review the recommendations in the Summary Report and work with stakeholders to create legislative amendments by the end of the year.
In addition, changes are being considered to the Banned Drinker Register, under the Alcohol Harm Reduction Amendment Bill.
This will simplify the pathway for police to issue BDOs as priority measure to reduce alcohol-related harm resulting from liquor sourced from takeaway alcohol outlets.
The new changes will impact mostly on individuals who are consuming harmful levels alcohol and coming into contact with police or therapeutic intervention programs.
The summary report can be read here: here
Quotes attributed to Chief Minister and Minister for Alcohol Policy, Natasha Fyles:
"Every Territorian has the right to live and work in a safe community, that's why this government has done more than any other government when it comes to alcohol policy.
"Alcohol-related harm continues to be one of the greatest social issues facing the Northern Territory today, and no Government has done more to stop it.
"The Territory Government recognises the importance of a strong regulatory framework for alcohol in the Northern Territory, to minimise the harm that alcohol causes in our community and to provide certainty for business, the public and industry.
"The BDR is an effective supply and harm reduction tool for takeaway alcohol that is minimal cost and has no adverse impact to industry and consumers."
Northern Territory Government
