1 May 2014

Liquor law reform review confirms drop in alcohol related crime

| Canfan
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An independent review into the ACT’s 2010 liquor law reforms confirms the new laws are starting to tackle alcohol related harm and are improving community safety.

Attorney-General, Simon Corbell, today released the two-year review of the 2010 reforms prepared by ACIL Allen Consulting.

“The report confirms stakeholders believe the ACT Government’s reforms have made a positive contribution to community safety with alcohol related assaults across the ACT down by 11% since the new laws came into force,” Mr Corbell said.

The report also confirms that all alcohol related offences (except drink driving) are down by 21%, with drink driving offences down by 7%.

“These are very encouraging results but the report confirms there is also more work to be done.

“In particular the Report also confirms there has been an increase in alcohol related assaults in the city centre, although it cautions the data set on this issue is small and must be considered in the context of the increased police presence since 2010.”

Mr Corbell said that the Government would now consider the review recommendations about ways in which the existing liquor regime can be further reformed to improve community safety and reduce alcohol related harm.

“The Government will now focus on options for further reforms in relation to trading hours, outlet density, licence fees and restrictions on alcohol advertising and promotion. This will occur in consultation with all relevant stakeholders and the broader community. It is in these areas that the most significant results can be achieved to further reduce the impact alcohol misuse has on our community.

“The Government will also move quickly to address gaps in secondary supply laws about providing alcohol to minors; improving data collection and reporting on alcohol related harms; and ensuring the Liquor Advisory Board’s membership and role supports the provision of broadly based advice on liquor issues to Government.”

The review report can be accessed on the Justice and Community Safety Directorate website.

(Press Release care of Simon Corbell)

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