New identification and sales limitations are being proposed for Alice Springs bars, following a period marked by significant alcohol-related issues. These measures aim to address ongoing concerns about public safety and reduce harm within the community.
Background to the Restrictions
Alice Springs has experienced a notable rise in alcohol-related crime and violence, prompting government intervention. In response, various restrictions on alcohol sales and consumption have been implemented and are currently under review or proposed for extension. These actions stem from a complex interplay of community pressure, government responses, and a desire to foster a safer environment.
January 2023: New restrictions on alcohol sales were introduced, including limitations on takeaway sales on Mondays and Tuesdays, and reduced trading hours on other days. These measures followed a visit by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and senior Aboriginal politicians.
February 2023: Northern Territory laws reintroducing alcohol restrictions, termed "grog bans," were put into effect. These bans, some of which could be opted out of by communities, aimed to tackle alcohol-fueled violence.
July 2023: The Northern Territory government announced an extension of takeaway alcohol restrictions in Alice Springs for at least another year, citing a reduction in harm. Limits were placed on bottle shop trading hours, with no takeaways allowed on Mondays or Tuesdays, and customers limited to one purchase per day.
February 2024: The Central Australian Aboriginal Congress reported that one year of evidence-based alcohol restrictions had led to a considerable reduction in alcohol sales, crime (including domestic and family violence), and alcohol-related hospital presentations.
November 2025 (proposed): The Liquor Commission is proposing new variations to liquor licence conditions, including the use of face scanning identification systems for entry into four licensed premises on specific days and times, and further restrictions on serving full-strength alcohol.
Current Proposals for Bar Operations
New proposals from the Liquor Commission are currently open for public comment and may bring further changes to how alcohol is sold and consumed in Alice Springs bars.
Identification Systems: Four licensed premises – Todd Tavern, NT Rock Bar, Bojangles, and Uncles Tavern – are being considered for mandatory identification systems. This system would include scanning patrons' faces before entry, particularly before 3 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. This is similar to systems already used in liquor stores.
Meal Requirements: More than 20 restaurants might be permitted to serve full-strength alcohol, but only when accompanied by a full meal. This restriction would apply between 11:30 am and 3 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Community Considerations: The proposed changes also require licensees to take "reasonable steps" to prevent disturbance to residents, workers, students, worshippers, and service users in the vicinity of the licensed premises. This includes ensuring public order and safety related to patrons' conduct when going to or from the venue.
Reported Impact of Previous Restrictions
Evidence gathered over the past year suggests that previous alcohol restrictions have had a positive impact on safety in Alice Springs.
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Reduced Sales and Consumption: Official data indicated a 25% drop in alcohol sales and consumption in Alice Springs during July-September 2023, compared to the same period in 2022, after restrictions were put in place.
Decreased Crime and Violence: Reports highlight a "major reduction in crime, including domestic and family violence," attributed to the reduced availability and consumption of alcohol.
Lower Hospital Presentations: Alcohol-related hospital visits have also reportedly decreased.
Diverse Community Perspectives
While official figures suggest positive outcomes, community viewpoints on the effectiveness and fairness of alcohol restrictions are varied.
Support for Restrictions: The Central Australian Aboriginal Congress has publicly congratulated the Northern Territory Government for its "evidence-based restrictions," stating that official figures demonstrate their effectiveness in keeping the town safe. They note the historical context of widespread alcohol-related crime and violence.
Concerns about Effectiveness: Some groups, including those delivering services to town camps, have voiced that past bans did not necessarily stop excessive alcohol consumption.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Considerations
The situation in Alice Springs remains dynamic, with ongoing efforts to balance public safety with community needs.
Government Commitment: The Northern Territory Government has shown a commitment to addressing alcohol-related harm through legislative measures and extensions of existing restrictions.
Community Collaboration: The Central Australian Aboriginal Congress and other local organizations continue to work with government bodies to find comprehensive solutions.
Public Comment Period: The current proposals for enhanced identification and sales restrictions are subject to a 28-day public comment period, allowing for community input before any final decisions are made.
Sources Used:
Alice Springs News: https://alicespringsnews.com.au/posts/face-scanning-before-entering-pub - Article detailing proposed face scanning and meal restrictions in Alice Springs bars.
Central Australian Aboriginal Congress: https://www.caac.org.au/news/one-year-on-alcohol-restrictions-have-made-alice-springs-a-safer-town/ - Report on the positive impact of alcohol restrictions on safety and crime in Alice Springs after one year.
BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-64389869 - Overview of initial alcohol sales limitations in Alice Springs due to violence.
Inkl: https://www.inkl.com/news/new-alcohol-restrictions-funding-promises-and-the-potential-return-of-blanket-alcohol-bans-here-s-what-s-been-announced-for-alice-springs - Summary of new alcohol restrictions and related announcements for Alice Springs.
News.com.au: https://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/the-nt-new-laws-reintroducing-alcohol-restrictions-are-now-in-force/news-story/c71e55af9faf2d89569a84fe55b93863 - Information on new Northern Territory laws and alcohol restrictions introduced to combat violence.
NITV: https://www.sbs.com.au/nitv/article/nt-government-has-extended-alice-springs-takeaway-alcohol-restrictions-for-at-least-another-year/g59io93x4 - Report on the extension of takeaway alcohol restrictions in Alice Springs by the NT government.
