New public drinking law leads to fines and arrests, critics question its effectiveness

Nuisance public drinking remains a contentious issue in many communities, prompting authorities to enforce stricter regulations to maintain public order. Often associated with antisocial behaviour, safety concerns, and community disruptions, public drinking laws aim to curb excessive alcohol consumption in shared spaces.

In the Northern Territory, a new public drinking law has sparked a wave of fines and arrests. Since its implementation in November, the law has seen over $23,000 in fines issued and three individuals arrested, according to recent NT Police data.

The nuisance public drinking law, introduced by the Country Liberal Party (CLP) government, targets individuals consuming alcohol in prohibited public places while causing a nuisance to others. The intent is clear: to reduce public disturbances and enhance safety. 

While authorities argue that the law helps fulfil their intent, critics raise concerns about its enforcement and potential targeting of vulnerable populations. 

With 120 people fined $197 each, as of January 28, the financial burden on those penalised is significant. Stephanie Holmes, the executive officer of the Association of Alcohol and Other Drug Agencies NT (AADANT), points out that many of those fined are rough sleepers and unemployed, making the payment of fines a daunting challenge.

‘It further exacerbates people into isolation. We know that if once you get a fine, if fines are accrued and you can’t pay them and you’ve got to go to prison to work off the fine, there [are] negative impacts and long-term impacts,’ she said.

‘So it’s really important that we look at what the real issue is.’

The law’s effectiveness is also questioned by local business owners and politicians. Rachel Murphy, a café owner in Nightcliff, has reportedly observed minimal changes since the law’s enforcement.

Despite instances of people who have ‘come in and taken alcohol off our shelves and harassed the staff,’ she feels that a stronger police presence, rather than fines, would be more beneficial in curbing antisocial behaviour.

‘There’s a lot of antisocial behaviour that goes on and even when we’ve called for help, the help’s come hours later. If there was more of a [police] presence in this area, it would definitely help,’ Murphy said.

group of people clinking glasses after a toast
What is your take on NT’s nuisance public drinking law?

Similarly, Johnston MLA Justine Davis expresses doubts about the law’s impact on alcohol-related harm in the community. 

‘We’ve all got questions about whether or not they’re working, what the point of the fines are, are they going to be recovered?’ she said.

‘What we know is that alcohol is one of the biggest causes of harm, death and crime in our community—is this kind of measure actually going to have an impact on that? I don’t know.’

The NT government, however, defends its strategy, with plans to introduce mandatory alcohol rehabilitation as part of its policy to tackle alcohol abuse. Health and Alcohol Policy Minister Steve Edgington emphasises the need for problem drinkers to receive help through ‘mandatory alcohol rehabilitation.’

Yet, this approach is not without its critics. Holmes warns that forced rehabilitation can be less effective than voluntary programs, as it may take longer for individuals to embrace change.

‘We know by research that voluntary rehab is better,’ she argued.

In the upcoming parliamentary sittings, the government is also expected to repeal a minimum floor price for alcohol, a move that health and alcohol policy advocates fear will make alcohol cheaper and more accessible to those with addiction issues.

As the NT grapples with the complexities of managing public drinking and its consequences, the community is left to ponder the balance between enforcement and support. Are fines and mandatory rehabilitation the answer, or do they merely address the symptoms rather than the cause?

What are your thoughts about the effectiveness of the nuisance public drinking law? Share it with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.

Also read: Why alcohol is so damaging as we age

Floralyn Teodoro
Floralyn Teodoro
Floralyn covers different topics such as health, lifestyle, and home improvement, among many others. She is also passionate about travel and mindful living.

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