The Northern Territory Government is working in partnership with communities to manage alcohol and reduce alcohol-related harm for all Territorians. The website will provide useful information and resources about alcohol policy as well as key alcohol-related indicators in the Territory.
Alcohol-related harm continues to be a core issue impacting the lives of Territorians.
The Northern Territory (NT) has the highest consumption of alcohol per person in Australia. The National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2022-23 found that 40% of NT adults consumed alcohol in ways that put their health at risk, compared to a national average of 31% of Australian adults. The NT also has the greatest proportion of residents who exceed the recommended guidelines for the consumption of alcohol per week or in a single day.
The NT Government has released its Plan to Tackle Problem Drinking PDF (5.7 MB), which addresses alcohol-related harms by extending alcohol restrictions.
The Liquor Act 2019 (the Act) came into effect on 1 October 2019 and governs the distribution and consumption of alcohol in the NT. The primary purpose of the Act is to minimise the harm associated with the consumption of liquor in a way that recognises the public's interest in the sale, supply, service, promotion and consumption of liquor.
The Banned Drinker Register (BDR) prohibits individuals that consume alcohol at harmful levels from purchasing, possessing or consuming alcohol within the Northern Territory. This includes takeaway alcohol.
Read more about the Banned Drinker Register.
Amendments to the Liquor Act 2019 in February 2023 allow communities to opt out of interim Alcohol Protected Areas (APAs) through the development and implementation of a community alcohol plan (CAP) and either become a general restricted area (GRA) or revoke the interim APA.
CAPs provide a framework for communities to make informed decisions about alcohol management with an emphasis on reducing alcohol-related harm and promoting healthy, safe and strong communities.
More information on changes to alcohol restrictions in NT communities, go to the NT Government website.
The alcohol action initiatives program provides short-term funding to support community action to minimise the harm caused by the consumption of alcohol through supply, demand and harm reduction strategies.
Get information about alcohol action initiatives on the NT Health website.
The Alcohol Policy Coordination Unit coordinates alcohol policy across government and works with key stakeholders and communities to reduce alcohol related harm.
Contact us at alcoholpolicy@nt.gov.au.