Alcohol Sales Restrictions

In reply to the Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK ().22 February 2023).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector):

1. Hon Andrea Michaels MP, as the Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, is responsible for the administration of the Liquor Licensing Act 1997. She has been briefed through the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner regarding the current and potential locations of the restrictions.

2. The Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs has been informed of the impact on harm in areas where the restrictions have been recently imposed.

The decision whether or not to impose liquor restrictions sits with the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner pursuant to his powers under the Liquor Licensing Act 1997 to impose conditions on a liquor licence on public interest grounds or by consent of the licensee.

The commissioner's decisions to impose liquor restrictions in any region, including the decision to vary or extend liquor restrictions are subject to review of the Licensing Court.

The commissioner has informed the minister of his engagement with service providers, South Australia Police, Aboriginal communities and local councils in the affected areas to monitor the effectiveness of the restrictions. Evidence to date has suggested that in Port Augusta there has been a reduction in antisocial behaviour, including public intoxication, property damage, domestic violence and assaults.