The NSW ACT Alcohol Policy Alliance (NAAPA) has welcomed the measures announced today by Premier Barry O’Farrell to tackle alcohol-related violence in New South Wales.
The State’s leading coalition of health professionals, police, community members and researchers says it is clear that the Premier has listened to the people of New South Wales.
NAAPA spokesperson, Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) Chief Executive, Michael Thorn said he is pleased with the announcement.
“I am very pleased to see the Government has seen fit to heed NAAPA’s advice and introduce strong and effective preventative measures. NAAPA looks forward to receiving further details on the measures outlined today and the opportunity to assist the Premier and the NSW Government with their implementation,” Mr Thorn said.
The measures announced include 1:30am lockouts and 3am last drinks across an expanded Sydney CBD precinct, and a state-wide 10pm closing for off-licence premises.
Mr Thorn says the Premier should be congratulated for his willingness to stand up to the alcohol industry and adopt measures that go to the heart of the problem.
“The Premier’s tough new measures are an indication that he and the NSW Government understand that to effectively tackle alcohol-fuelled violence you have to be prepared to address the issue of availability. NAAPA has long advocated lockouts, and earlier closing hours for both on and off-licence premises, and is pleased to see these moderate evidence-based measures adopted,” Mr Thorn said
