The next chapter of WA’s liquor laws

DLGSC released the consultation paper The next chapter of WA’s liquor laws for public comment from 17 November 2022 to 31 January 2023.  The paper sought feedback to:

• identify what is working well with the current regulatory framework
• identify issues the industry, government and community may have with the current framework
• explore reform ideas from our stakeholders to improve the current regulatory framework.

Almost 200 responses were received, and DLGSC thanks all respondents for their input.

Current liquor reform projects

Informed by stakeholder feedback and subsequent targeted consultation, DLGSC is progressing reform projects to make it easier to do business in WA while still minimising alcohol-related harm or ill-health, including:

• staged amendments to the Liquor Control Act 1988 and regulations, with the first stage of Act amendments anticipated to be progressing by mid-2024
• a review of the Liquor policies
• updates and improvements to the licensing system.

The changes follow the introduction and development of significant measures to reduce alcohol-related harm, including:

• the establishment of Protected Entertainment Precincts in the Perth metropolitan area and the introduction of liquor restrictions where required to protect the community
• the roll-out of the Banned Drinkers Register in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Goldfields and Carnarvon, and the development of proposed enhancements to the register.

Contact us

For specific queries relating to this liquor reform, please email liquorreform@dlgsc.wa.gov.au 

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