By Annette Shailer
The Director of Liquor Licensing in Western Australia is set to introduce strict new drinking restrictions across the Kimberley region to tackle Aboriginal alcohol abuse, lawlessness and social and health issues.
Director of liquor licensing, Barry Sargeant, has given licensees until February 20 to ‘show cause’ as to why the restrictions on packaged liquor sales should not be introduced in the region.
“After careful consideration of all the material submitted to my office, I have decided to consider imposing these conditions," Sargeant said.
"If imposed, they will apply to all licensees authorised to sell and supply packaged liquor.
"I believe that any negative impacts and inconveniences that may be experienced do not outweigh the possible social and health benefits that these restrictions may bring to the broader community."
If introduced, the restrictions would ban the sale of takeaway beer (more than 400ml) in bottles known as ‘King Browns’, packaged full-strength beer and two-litre wine casks.
The restrictions are similar to those introduced in Fitzroy Crossing 18 months ago with reportedly positive results.
The new restrictions follow an article in The Australian on Monday detailing a survey of Halls Creek children that revealed the first wish of more than 100 of the children was for an alcohol ban.
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