New legislation to strengthen WA's Banned Drinkers Register

• Banned Drinkers Register will be strengthened to improve effectiveness
• Legislation to optimise the register is currently being drafted
• Laws will create additional pathways onto the register through police and courts
• Immediate steps are being taken to expand the trial to Carnarvon 

The McGowan Government will introduce new legislation to strengthen the Banned Drinkers Register following trials in the Pilbara, Kimberley and Goldfields regions.

Proposals to strengthen and potentially expand the Banned Drinkers Register were released for consultation in September last year.

After considering feedback, new laws are now being drafted to improve its effectiveness.

The McGowan Government can also confirm the trial will expand to Carnarvon.

This follows recent visits from the Premier and Racing and Gaming Minister, who met with police, local government, service providers, and the newly-formed liquor accord.

The legislation will make the Banned Drinkers Register mandatory for licensees in selected areas.

It will allow police and the courts to register individuals for alcohol-related offending, including alcohol-related violence and drink driving, not just in or near licensed premises. Health professionals and specialist frontline staff would also be able to refer individuals.

The changes would require online liquor retailers to check the register before going ahead with any sale. It would also be an offence to knowingly supply liquor to banned individuals.

Further to that, police will have the power to seize or dispose of liquor in the possession of someone on the register.

Legislation is being drafted and will be introduced to Parliament as soon as possible.

Comments attributed to Racing and Gaming Minister Reece Whitby:

"We've listened to the feedback and these reforms will help strengthen the Banned Drinkers Register trial to improve its effectiveness.

"Alcohol-related harm is a long-standing, complex issue. There is no easy fix. The trial is one of several measures to tackle alcohol abuse and protect Western Australians.

"While an enhanced Banned Drinkers Register will not be a cure all, we're taking immediate steps to roll it out in Carnarvon and I'm confident it will help address alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour.

"I look forward to the support of liquor outlets as well as police and local government as this trial is extended to Carnarvon."

Minister's office - 6552 6300