2817. Hon Alison Xamon to the minister representing the Minister for Racing and Gaming:
(1) Does the Minister support uniform region-wide alcohol restrictions across the:
(a) Pilbara;
(b) Kimberley?
(2) If no to (1), why not?
Hon Alannah MacTiernan replied:
(1) (a)–(b)
Tackling alcohol-related harm across Western Australia is a complex and multifaceted challenge. The government has a suite of measures to draw on that aim to assist in reducing harm from alcohol, one of which is restrictions – limiting overall population consumption. Clearly, no singular measure will eradicate alcohol-related harm and it is the challenge of government to find a balance in a combination of measures in different communities of the State, including restrictions and dry communities, which are led by Indigenous leadership.
As Minister, I am encouraged by the liquor industry’s proactive stance on tackling alcohol-related harm in another way – through the trial of a Banned Drinkers Register across the Pilbara. The government has worked closely with the Australian Hotels Association of WA and the Liquor Stores Association of WA to make this trial a reality for the first time ever in Western Australia, and I look forward to analysing its findings in relation to reducing harm.
(2) Not applicable.