The CLP Government’s new nuisance public drinking laws have been passed in Parliament.
It continues the implementation of the CLP’s reducing crime, rebuilding economy and restoring lifestyle agenda in their first sittings of Parliament which has already seen Declan’s Law, lowering the age of criminal responsibility, ram raid, and post and boast legislation pass.
The new nuisance public drinking offence will give police powers to fine, charge and arrest people in public places where alcohol is prohibited, as well as issuing those same people a seven-day Banned Drinker Order.
Minister for Alcohol Policy Steve Edgington said the laws were about “making our public spaces and parks safer and cleaner for everyone”.
“These powers will allow police to intervene earlier to ensure we stop this scourge in public places where alcohol is prohibited,” said Mr Edgington.
“We want to reduce the harm being caused by alcohol in our community and enforce a higher community standard.
“Territorians want to move freely around their communities, go to the shops, and enjoy our parks and public spaces without being confronted by unacceptable alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour.”
Mr Edgington added: “Importantly, this will not stop Territorians from having a beer while enjoying our unique outdoor lifestyle at places like East Point.”
The nuisance public drinking offence will give police the power to issue a fine of up to $925, a seven-day Banned Drinker Order, as well as tipping out alcohol.
Currently, police can only confiscate or tip out alcohol in public places where alcohol is prohibited.
The definition of public place includes any public place (or vehicle at a public place) in Alice Springs, Darwin, Katherine, Palmerston, Tennant Creek, any public place within 2km of a licensed venue, or any other place prescribed by regulation or by a local council.
Existing local council exemptions, which allow people to consume alcohol at specific exclusion times, remain in place at East Point, Nightcliff foreshore, during the Mindil Beach Markets, Leliyn campground in Nitmiluk ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Park, and the Alice Springs Telegraph Station picnic area.
The new public drinking offence will not apply in these areas during the specific exclusion times, however, existing laws to manage antisocial behaviour can be enforced.
