The Northern Territory Chief Minister has outlined a number of immediate community safety measures to address anti-social behaviour and crime in Alice Springs.
They includes the following alcohol restrictions, under section 88 of the Liquor Act which will come into effect immediately:
- One sale per day per person, following industry guidance;
- Alcohol free days on Monday and Tuesday for takeaway purchases; and
- Limiting hours of alcohol being sold between 3pm-7pm, except for on Saturdays.
Chief Minister, Natasha Fyles has also announced the appointment of a Central Australian Regional Controller who will make sure all levels of government are working in partnership to deliver what is needed to help the community.
The Central Australian Regional Controller will be responsible for developing an Alcohol Management Plan for the region. Businesses and members of the community including town camps, will be able to have input into this plan and into how they want alcohol managed in their community.
The Territory Government, through the new Central Australian Regional Controller will also focus on looking towards additional measures including the possibility of an opt-out system, the Chief Minister said.
“Alcohol-related harm is one of the Territory’s biggest social challenges and no government has done more to curb this issue,” she said.
“From risk based licensing to the Banned Drinkers Register, from the minimum floor price to our Police Auxiliary Liquor Inspectors, and with record funding for alcohol treatment services and domestic, family and sexual violence, we continue to invest heavily in this space.
“We are taking immediate action to keep the community safe. These are tough, smart and proportionate measures that address the immediate issues we are seeing in Central Australia.
“We are continuing to work with the community, police, and experts to implement evidence-based solutions to break the cycle of reoffending and tackle the root causes of crime.
“This announcement of immediate action in Alice Springs complements the work that is already underway. The establishment of the Central Australian Regional Controller will make sure there is a coordinated effort across government.
“We will continue to work and listen to the community.”
