Arabic version: يدعو المدافعون إلى اتخاذ إجراءات بشأن تأخير تشريع توصيل الكحول
Anti-violence advocates in South Australia are expressing concern over the lack of progress on alcohol delivery legislation that was recommended by a royal commission into domestic violence. The South Australian government had previously stated it would introduce this legislation immediately following the March state election, but advocates say no such reforms have been introduced yet.
According to ABC News, the government accepted 129 out of 136 recommendations from the Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, which included significant changes to the Liquor Licensing Act. Premier Peter Malinauskas had assured the public that amendments would be made after the election, but advocates are now questioning the government’s commitment.
Family violence prevention advocate Ayla Chorley highlighted the importance of following through on the promises made by the premier. She stated that the community, especially women and children, are left waiting for the legislative changes that were assured to them. The government has acknowledged that it is working on a bill that will be consulted on before being presented to parliament.
The royal commission was established in late 2023 following the deaths of six South Australians from alleged family and domestic violence. It recommended several measures aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm, including a two-hour buffer between ordering and delivery, and limiting the hours during which alcohol can be delivered. Advocates argue that these changes are essential for protecting vulnerable individuals in potentially dangerous situations.
Concerns have been raised that the delay in introducing these legislative changes could lead to a weaker version of the bill or even its abandonment. Advocates are eager for clarity on the status of the proposed reforms, as they believe the current situation leaves them uncertain about the future of the legislation. The government has assured that it remains committed to implementing reforms that support victim-survivors, but the timeline for these changes remains unclear.
