The Territory Government is undertaking progressive alcohol reforms which focus on long-term change and local decision making.
Today, the Territory Government is announcing another evidence-based course of action; a voluntary buy-back scheme of grocery store liquor licences across the Territory.
For the next four weeks, the voluntary buy-back scheme will be in place, where grocery store licensees may express an interest for Government to purchase their liquor licence.
All offers made will be commercial in confidence. The purpose of the EOI is to reduce the number of alcohol takeaway outlets across the Territory as evidence shows the density of liquor outlets contributes substantially to alcohol-related harms and takeaway outlets pose the highest risk.
In January this year, the Territory Government enacted the quarterly reporting for 25 per cent cap on liquor sales – building on a recommendation of the Riley Review. It ensures that alcohol is not the primary product of grocery stores – alcohol sales must be ancillary to the key business of selling food and other groceries.
Grocery stores must be capable of making a profit without relying on the sale of alcohol. We have different licence categories for this reason – to protect our community.
The Territory Government is also undertaking the 3 year review of the Liquor Act which may see further changes.
