Banned Drinkers Register close, tender released

The McGowan Government is progressing the implementation of a trail of a Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) in the Pilbara, with the release of a tender request outlining the requirements of the system.

The BDR is a controversial initiative which will ensure people on the register will not be able to purchase takeaway alcohol anywhere in the Pilbara.

Designed to target problem drinkers, once the system is implemented, everyone who purchases takeaway liquor will be required to produce a scan-able and accepted form of identification.

Any person who does not have existing valid identification will be assisted to attain it prior to commencement of the trial.

The trial will commence as soon as possible following the tender process and will run for two years.

Minister for racing and gaming Paul Papalia said the tender release represented a significant milestone in the McGowan Government’s work to address alcohol-related harm in the region.

“The banned drinkers register is an important initiative to improve social and health outcomes for people in the Pilbara,” he said.

“The initiative aims to specifically target people with alcohol problems, providing an alternative approach to blanket restrictions which would impact the entire community.

“I would like to thank Australian Hotels Association (WA) and the Liquor Stores Association of WA for their collaborative work progressing this important program.”

Member for the Pilbara Kevin Michel said he was pleased to see the State Government had listened to his advocacy on behalf of the Pilbara.

“We want to see if a targeted measure can work more effectively than subjecting every responsible customer to restrictions,” he said.

“My office will be open to constituents who have any questions during the trial, I look forward to working with the community on this important project.”

The trial will run for two years and will be evaluated by The University of Western Australia.