Tackling alcohol abuse

Too many Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory are still devastated by the effects of alcohol. Alcohol abuse causes community dysfunction, and harms individuals and families. It is a problem that must be fixed if there is to be progress in other areas.

What needs improving?

In Northern Territory remote communities, alcohol contributes to almost 30 per cent of domestic violence incidents. Across the NT, consumption of alcohol is 1.5 times the national level and alcohol-related harm is four times the national level.

What is being done?

Under the NTER alcohol restrictions, alcohol is currently banned in prescribed areas. It is an offence to possess, supply or transport liquor, with some exceptions.

The Australian Government is also encouraging the development of local Alcohol Management Plans (AMPs). AMPs have been introduced into every regional centre outside the Darwin region and in some remote areas. Community-driven AMPs are reducing alcohol-related harm and anti-social behaviour. There have been significant reductions on Groote Eylandt in particular. In Nhulunbuy the number of people in custody for drunkenness has halved since the AMP was introduced in 2008.

There is now more support for problem drinkers with expanded alcohol treatment and rehabilitation services.

The Northern Territory Government has introduced new laws to reduce problem drinking, by restricting access to alcohol for problem drinkers.

Directions for the future?

Tackling alcohol abuse involves working in partnership with people, communities, and the Northern Territory Government, as well as understanding and addressing underlying causes. Action is needed which tackles alcohol supply and demand, and offers support and rehabilitation for problem drinkers.

The Australian Government believes the current alcohol restrictions should remain. It will consult with communities to strengthen AMPs, including introducing minimum criteria so they are more effective in preventing alcohol-related harm. It will work to develop and agree plans for communities without AMPs.

Services put in place to help problem drinkers should be strengthened. This includes more qualified alcohol and drug workers and more treatment and rehabilitation services.

Above all, the Australian Government wants to hear from Indigenous communities about local solutions to alcohol abuse, so next steps are based on what works.