Territory Police will have stronger powers to prevent and deal with alcohol-related crime and disorder under proposed laws being introduced by the CLP Opposition tomorrow.
Deputy Leader of the Opposition Gerard Maley will introduce The Liquor Legislation (Offences) Bill, which could be debated as early as the March sittings of Parliament.
Mr Maley said the CLP Opposition was stepping up to fill a void created by Labor’s failure to effectively regulate alcohol supply.
“Prior to 2019, the Liquor Act included an offence for consuming liquor within 2 km of a licensed premises,” he said.
“Labor removed the offence provisions and, as a result, police have no power to do anything but tip out liquor—a bit like closing the door after the horse has bolted.
“Currently, police cannot demand identification, cannot arrest or threaten arrest, and cannot issue an infringement notice.
“The CLP’s Bill will return those powers to police.”
On passage of the Bill, consuming liquor within 2 km of a licensed premises could incur a $785 fine.
Mr Maley said the penalties matched those in place before Labor removed the provision.
“Such an offence would also count as a strike towards addition to the Banned Drinker Register,” he said.
“A second infringement would land the offender on the BDR.
“The CLP Opposition is serious about lowering crime and anti-social behaviour in the Territory and providing our police with the tools and resources they need to do their jobs.
“This Bill will provide them with the legislative support they need to tackle anti-social behaviour.”
ENDS