Have Your Say

We are reviewing our Control of Alcohol in Public Places Bylaw and invite you to share your thoughts by completing our online survey. This bylaw plays an important role in enhancing community safety and well-being by regulating alcohol consumption in public spaces. Your feedback will help shape how we approach alcohol control in our community.

What is the Purpose of the Bylaw?

The bylaw is designed to:

  • Reduce Alcohol-Related Harm: Minimise public nuisance, disorderly behaviour, and violence caused by alcohol consumption.
  • Promote Safe Public Spaces: Create enjoyable environments for all residents and visitors.
  • Support Law Enforcement: Provide police with a practical tool to manage alcohol-related issues.

This bylaw allows police to use discretion when addressing alcohol consumption in alcohol control areas. Officers can assess each situation and decide whether intervention is necessary. This approach enables de-escalation without the need for formal infringements or arrests, unless there is actual or potential alcohol-related crime or disorder.

This bylaw sets the rules around drinking alcohol in public spaces like parks, reserves, and streets. This review is not about alcohol licences, bars, restaurants, or where alcohol can be sold—those are covered by separate policies and legislation.

Your Eyes and Ears

There are currently alcohol bans in locations across the district which were introduced to address alcohol related crime and disorder in those areas. As part of this bylaw review, we would like to hear from you about any high levels of alcohol-related crime or disorder you may have observed in your community’s public spaces.

Alcohol related crime and disorder could include:

  • Vandalism
  • Littering (bottles/cans etc.)
  • Public intoxication
  • Fighting or aggressive confrontations
  • Drunk driving or other dangerous behaviors
  • Noise disturbances
  • Harassment or verbal abuse
  • Property damage (e.g., broken fences, windows)
Take our online survey to share your observations or identify how our current bylaw could be improved.