In July 2026, the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly referred the Liquor Act Amendment Bill 2026 (Serial 71) to the Legislative Scrutiny Committee. Measures in the Bill include the conversion of Aboriginal communities currently designated as Interim Alcohol Protected Areas into General Restricted Areas. NT Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations have long advocated for this change as an effective measure to reduce community harms.
FARE, and other community organisations, raised concerns about other changes which will amend the banning notice scheme and further weaken licensing regulation. The Bill expands police powers to issue on-the-spot banning notices of up to 90 days for certain alcohol related offences in urban centres.
The Bill is expected to pass the Legislative Assembly when it meets in October 2026.
Summary of recommendations
- FARE supports the conversion of Interim Alcohol Protected Areas to General Restricted Areas.
FARE further recommends:
- Implemented the reform in a way that supports Aboriginal community self-determination and provides clear, accessible pathways for communities to vary or revoke restrictions if they choose.
- Support restrictions on alcohol supply through the implementation of a public health strategy to reduce alcohol harm. This should include accessible prevention, treatment, support services, community-led decision-making and long-term investment.
- FARE recommends that any extension of the duration of banning notices should not proceed until the measure has been evaluated to assess its effect in preventing or reducing alcohol harms.
FARE further recommends:
- Ensure any extension of banning notices does not unnecessarily restrict individual rights and liberties, such as freedom of movement.
- Broaden exemptions to banning notices beyond health, medical and government services to include education, religious observance, cultural obligations, and family or caring responsibilities.
- Strengthen safeguards and review mechanisms to ensure banning notices are used without discrimination and only where necessary and proportionate.
- Address discriminatory impacts, particularly because NT Police data indicates banning notices have been issued almost exclusively to Aboriginal people.