Banned Drinkers Register rolls out in Carnarvon

• Banned Drinkers Register trial begins in Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction
• Buyers of takeaway alcohol now required to show photo identification
• Legislation to strengthen register currently being introduced into Parliament
• Liquor restrictions have been in place in Carnarvon since earlier this month
  

The Banned Drinkers Register is now up and running in Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction with buyers of takeaway alcohol required to show photo identification.

The register is already being trialled in the Pilbara, Kimberley and Goldfields.

The Banned Drinkers Register prohibits customers from purchasing takeaway alcohol who have either voluntarily elected to be on the register or are subject to a current Prohibition Order or Barring Notice. A Prohibition Order is issued by the Director of Liquor Licensing on application by the Police Commissioner and a Barring Notice is issued by the Police Commissioner.

When bottle shop staff check identification at the point of sale, the scanners show whether an individual is on the register. If the buyer is not listed, the sale can go ahead.

The scanning device also monitors the sale of takeaway alcohol using the Takeaway Alcohol Management System. This system supports liquor restrictions by stopping customers from shopping around and buying alcohol above the daily restriction limits in that area.

The McGowan Government is introducing new legislation to strengthen the Banned Drinkers Register. Proposed changes include:

• allowing 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;
• allowing health professionals and specialist frontline staff to refer individuals;
• requiring online liquor retailers to check the register before going ahead with any sale;
• making it an offence to knowingly supply liquor to banned individuals; and
• giving police the power to seize or dispose of liquor in the possession of someone on the register.
  

The Banned Drinkers Register and Takeaway Alcohol Management System are maintained by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. For more information, visit www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/BDR

Comments attributed to Racing and Gaming Minister Reece Whitby:

"The Banned Drinkers Register provides a targeted response to problem drinking and empowers individuals by allowing them to voluntarily place themselves on the register.

"Alcohol-related harm is a long-standing, complex issue. There is no easy fix. The Banned Drinkers Register will not be a cure all but I'm confident it will help address alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour in Carnarvon.

"We're rolling out a campaign to ensure Western Australians are aware of how the register works and what identification is required when buying takeaway alcohol.

"Our Government is committed to working with local industry, WA Police and the community to reduce alcohol-related harm in the region."

Minister's office - 6552 6300