The Liquor Stores Association of Western Australia has commended the State Government’s new regulations to stamp out sly grogging in communities across the Kimberley.
The trial regulations, which come into effect this weekend (Saturday 18 September) will limit the volumes of liquor that can be transported in a vehicle in the Kimberley.
Under the regulations WA Police will have the power to seize and dispose of alcohol on the spot.
However, there will be exemptions in the regulations for pastoralists, tourists, and operators of remote work sites.
CEO of LSAWA Peter Peck said, “This trial is another weapon in the arsenal to reduce alcohol related harm and to crack down on people who illegally sell alcohol at inflated prices, preying on vulnerable people”.
“It’s a good first step but we also need to see the spotlight thrown onto postal and freight services which may provide a loophole for the full effectiveness of these regulations” he added.
The carriage limits will apply in the towns of Broome, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek, Kununurra, and Wyndham, and within 20 kilometres of those towns.
The limits will also apply within five kilometres of dry Aboriginal communities.
Anyone found to be in breach of these regulations faces a maximum fine of $10,000.