The Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) has officially kicked off in Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction in Western Australia, with buyers of takeaway alcohol required to show photo identification.
The BDR has been extended to Carnarvon to curb alcohol-related harm following successful trials in the Pilbara, Kimberley, and Goldfields regions.
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Under the new legislation, individuals who purchase takeaway alcohol are prohibited if they have either chosen to be on the register voluntarily or are under a current Prohibition Order or Barring Notice.
Racing and Gaming Minister Reece Whitby said the register provided a targeted response to problem drinking.
“Alcohol-related harm is a long-standing, complex issue. There is no easy fix. The Banned Drinkers Register will not be a cure, but I’m confident it will help address alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour in Carnarvon.”
According to the WA government, a Prohibition Order is granted by the Director of Liquor Licensing upon application by the Police Commissioner, while a Barring Notice is issued directly by the Police Commissioner.
Staff at the bottle shops verify identification using scanning devices to check if any individuals are on the register. If the buyer’s name does not appear on the register, the sale can proceed as usual.
Despite the new legislation strengthening the Banned Drinkers Register, Peter Peck, CEO of the Liquor Store Association of Western Australia (LSAWA), said it may result in sly grogging.
“Not coming from the retail outlets, but from people to people like sly groggers, who can see an opening and an opportunity to make large profits off people that are unfortunately addicted to the substance.”
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