Alcohol Enforcement in Kimberley
Police in Western Australia's Kimberley region have issued infringements to several bars and restaurants for alleged violations related to alcohol sales and conduct.
These violations include selling alcohol to individuals on the banned drinkers' register and permitting indecent behavior on premises. The recent actions highlight an intensified focus on liquor licensing compliance and community safety.
Understanding the Banned Drinkers' Register
The banned drinkers' register operates across the Kimberley and Pilbara regions. This crucial system aims to curb alcohol-related harm by restricting access for high-risk individuals.
This system requires individuals purchasing takeaway liquor to present identification for scanning by staff. The ID is then checked against the register to identify and refuse sales to banned individuals.
January Operations Yield Significant Results
Throughout January, police conducted robust enforcement operations, leading to a range of actions and outcomes. These efforts spanned multiple areas, targeting both licensed premises and illegal alcohol transport.
Key outcomes included:
- Over 150 banned drinking orders issued across the region.
- Two infringement notices to retail workers at a restaurant-licensed premises in Cable Beach for allegedly selling takeaway alcohol to a banned drinker.
- One outlet allegedly sold alcohol to a customer with an expired and unreadable driver's license, indicating lapses in identification checks.
- A venue received an infringement for not removing a heavily intoxicated man who engaged in indecent conduct on the premises.
- Operations targeting remote communities detected significant quantities of alcohol being transported between towns, suggesting active illegal supply chains.
Official Statements and Ongoing Efforts
A WA Police spokesperson detailed the scope of recent enforcement actions, underscoring the broad approach being taken.
Recent actions included:
- Seven barring notices issued.
- Nine charges against patrons at licensed premises for various offenses.
- Eight charges for offenses at liquor-restricted premises.
- 158 Banned Drinkers Orders issued across Broome, Derby, and Fitzroy Crossing, demonstrating the widespread application of the register.
Kimberley District Superintendent John Hutchison emphasized the broader impact of these operations.
Removing illicit alcohol from the street is an important step towards reducing violence in vulnerable communities.
Superintendent Hutchison affirmed that police are actively monitoring, intercepting, and dismantling illegal supply chains, reinforcing their commitment to community safety and well-being in the Kimberley.