To facilitate agreement on how to best respond collaboratively to DAREBIN ALCOHOL

Transcription

DAREBIN ALCOHOL
STRATEGY
FUTURE DIRECTIONS REPORT
2006 - 2009
Aim of this action plan:
To facilitate agreement on how to
best respond collaboratively to
minimise alcohol-related harms
Darebin Alcohol Strategy: Future Directions Report 2006 - 2009
Community Health and Safety Unit
Darebin City Council
PO Box 91 Preston Victoria 3072
274 Gower Street, Preston Victoria
Telephone: 8470 8552
Facsimile: 9261 4831
TTY (Hearing Impaired): 8470 8896
Multilingual Telephone Line: 8470 8470
Website: www.darebin.vic.gov.au/communityhealthandsafety
Email: chs@darebin.vic.gov.au
An initiative of the DAREBINsubstance 2005/06 and 2006/07 Annual Strategies
This project was funded by Darebin City Council with some support funding from the
Victorian Department of Human Services
Researched and written by Mark Boyd
August 2006
2
Introduction
The Darebin Council Plan, Four Years — Fifty Commitments (2005), states that:
“We will address the key factors that influence the overall health and wellbeing of our community and undertake prevention initiatives that support
people to make healthy lifestyle choices.”
This commitment acknowledges that the way we shape our local community can
make it easier for residents to choose healthy lifestyle behaviours.
Such an approach is reinforced by Council’s Community Health and Safety
Framework which gives primacy to a social model of health in which the key factors
that can influence healthy behaviours are recognised as lying beyond the health
system. While it is important to have access to health services in times of illness or
disease, there are often influences that occur much further “upstream” which can be
adjusted to prevent illness or disease in the first place.
The Community Health and Safety Framework also recognises that drug use is a
social aspect of our community. Thus, the main focus must be on minimising harm,
i.e. recognising that alcohol and drug use occurs, but aiming to reduce the negative
impacts they can have on our lives.
In order to develop the Darebin Alcohol Strategy – Future Directions Report,
extensive research was undertaken to understand what leverages local government has
that could play a role in minimising alcohol-related harms. These ideas were then
widely discussed with stakeholders across the service sector, and with a range of
Council departments, to ensure that the strategies are relevant and achievable.
Strategies have been developed across the four key goals of the Community Health
and Safety Framework:
1. Reduce health inequality
2. Build collaborative efforts
3. Strengthen community amenity
4. Celebrate participation in community life.
It is widely recognised that responses to alcohol-related harm must address the
variables of the drug itself, the attributes of the person using the drug (such as
personality and physical health), and the social and physical environment in which
consumption occurs. This requires a policy mix made up of diverse responses,
informed by the patterns of consumption, the drinking context, and the social
and cultural sanctions that support or constrain drinking behaviours 1 .
1
Hamilton, M (2004). “Preventing Drug-Related Harm” in Hamilton, King, Ritter (eds) Drug Use in
Australia: Preventing Harm. South Melbourne: Oxford University Press.
August 2006
3
Local government has a vital role to play, as a leader and a partner, in developing and
implementing strategies to reduce alcohol-related harms in the local community. It
has been recognised that:
Local government has the experience and authority in public health, planning
and enforcement. It has the links with other levels of government, with the
business and industry sectors and with the community. It also has a long
involvement in community development and action projects and programs.
Through an intimate knowledge of the needs of people at a particular time in a
particular place, local government also has a critical role to play in place
management and coordination programs. In addition to tailoring specific
interventions to prevent and treat alcohol-related harm, these programs will
reduce harm as a consequence of addressing the upstream issues of economic
and social disadvantage. 2
This Darebin Alcohol Strategy – Future Directions Report articulates Council’s
leadership role and aims to facilitate agreement on how to best respond locally to the
negative impacts of alcohol.
2
Parliament of Victoria: Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee (March, 2006), Inquiry into
Strategies to Reduce Harmful Alcohol Consumption, Final report. Volume 1, DCPC, Parliament of
Victoria.
August 2006
4
1.
Alcohol related harms in Darebin
Alcohol is second only to tobacco as a preventable cause of death and
hospitalisation in Australia. Nationally, alcohol consumption causes 4,286
deaths per year and 395,000 hospital bed days per year 3 .
Statistical evidence
Data for Darebin shows higher-than-average harms caused by alcohol:

There is a higher rate of alcohol consumption in Darebin (8.5L/yr) than
the Victoria average (just under 8L/yr) 4 .
There were 351 alcohol-related ambulance attendances in 34 months,
averaging 10 ambulance call-outs each month. 5 Anecdotal evidence
from the Preston Team of the Metropolitan Ambulance Service
estimates that these incidences are considerably under-reported. 6
Darebin has the second highest rate for all alcohol-related deaths in
metropolitan Melbourne (out of 31 local governments), with the most
recent mortality figures available showing an annual rate of 2.47 deaths
per 10,000 residents (i.e. approximately 28 deaths every year) and
30.68 hospital admissions per 10,000 residents7 .
In Darebin, 546 residents accessed drug treatment services for alcohol
in 2003/04, averaging around 46 requests for assistance each month 8 .
This represents one-third of all drug treatment clients in 2003/04.
The rate of alcohol-related assaults is 10.08 per 10,000 people. This is
slightly more than the state average (9.65 per 10,000). The rate of
family incidents was higher at 13.28 incidents per 10,000 residents 9 .
Reservoir had the 4th highest number of residents driving over the
alcohol limit in a six-month survey of police data carried out statewide 10 .
3
Parliament of Victoria: Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee (March, 2006), Inquiry into
Strategies to Reduce Harmful Alcohol Consumption, Final report. Volume 1, DCPC, Parliament of
Victoria.
4
Donath, S (2003). The Victorian Alcohol Statistics Handbook Volume 4: Patterns of alcohol
consumption 1999 – 2002 and trends in alcohol-related hospital admissions 1994 – 2001. Fitzroy,
Victoria: Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre.
5
Turning Point provided this data in a Report from the Surveillance of Drug Related Events Attended
by Ambulance in Melbourne Project, July 2005.
6
Personal communication with Fiona Cartmel, Preston Team Manager, Metropolitan Ambulance
Service. Fiona gave a recent example of one resident having 4 alcohol-related callouts in a 24-hour
period.
7
Laslett, A-M., Dietze, P., & Matthews, S.M. (2005). The Victorian Alcohol Statistics Handbook
Volume 7: Summary of alcohol-related harm for Victorian Local Government Areas 2005. Fitzroy,
8
Alcohol and Drug Treatment (Darebin) data for 2003-04 provided by the Department of Human
Services, Victoria.
9
Laslett, A-M., Dietze, P., & Matthews, S.M. (2005). The Victorian Alcohol Statistics Handbook
Volume 7: Summary of alcohol-related harm for Victorian Local Government Areas 2005. Fitzroy,
10
Victoria Police figures for Jan – June 2003, reported in “Drink Drive Spies”, Herald-Sun, 19
February 2004.
August 2006
5

The suburbs of Fairfield, Reservoir, and Preston were in the top 20
suburbs of where drink drivers were caught according to recent Police
figures. 11
It is estimated that alcohol is a contributing factor in:
52% of falls
30% of car accidents and pedestrian deaths
47% of assaults
16% of child abuse; and
61% of suicides and self-inflicted injury 12 .
Using data from the most recent years available for Darebin 13 , this means that
each year, alcohol is a contributing factor in:

1,040 emergency presentations and 520 hospital admissions from
falls
199 car crashes
353 reported assaults
66 child abuse notifications; and
198 hospital presentations and 105 hospital admissions from
suicide and self-harming injuries.
The lived experience
During research for this Darebin Alcohol Strategy – Future Directions
Report, at meetings of the Alcohol and Drug Coordination Committee, and
through networking opportunities, the harmful impacts of alcohol on
Darebin residents’ lives has also been collated informally. Some of the ways
that alcohol impacts negatively on Darebin residents includes:
Some liquor outlets with home delivery systems allow residents to
purchase alcohol on credit; this is particularly a problem for public
housing tenants on fixed incomes. In some instances, this has led to
public housing tenants generating unaffordable debts, and then being
hassled every pension day to repay the debt. Local nursing staff and
housing workers have noted that in some instances, tenants abandon
their property to avoid the debt or repay the debt ahead of food and
transport costs, resulting in more ordering of alcohol on credit. One
tenant did not receive any receipts or paperwork from the bottle shop
which offered both home delivery and credit, another bottle shop was
known to target their home delivery service to public housing
tenants.
11
Victoria Police figures for Jan – June 2003, reported in “Drink Drive Spies”, Herald-Sun, 19
February 2004.
12
Turning Point Alcohol & Drug Centre (April, 2005). National Alcohol Strategy 2005 – 2009,
Consultation Paper. Canberra: Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.
13
Community Health and Safety Unit. (2004) City of Darebin: Health, Safety and Substance Profiles
2004. Preston, Victoria. Darebin City Council.
August 2006
6
Some health workers have noted that it appears that one or two
public drinkers may end up being the scapegoat for the group of
public drinkers at locations across Darebin. In these instances, the
scapegoat may be physically abused, as health workers have noticed
that the same one or two drinkers seem to have new injuries and
bruises fairly regularly.
August 2006
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2.
Council activities that are alcoholrelated
Darebin City Council is already intricately involved in alcohol-related issues
for the municipality. This includes the following activities:
ACTIVITY
COUNCIL
UNIT (DEPT)
DESCRIPTION
Developing an alcohol
strategy as part of
Council’s alcohol and
drug annual plan
(DAREBINsubstance)
for 2005/06
Community
Health and
Safety Unit
(Community
Services)
This document provides a strategy
to reduce harmful alcohol
consumption in Darebin for 2006 –
2009.
Assesses and
approves applications
for new liquor licenses
(review of amenity
provisions)
Statutory
Planning
(Strategy &
Governance)
Coordinates the Good
Sports Program
Leisure
Services
(Culture and
Leisure)
This work involves venue liaison
and assessment of new liquor
licensing applications based on
amenity provisions (i.e. sufficient
car parking and noise disturbance
safeguards).
The Good Sports Accreditation
Program helps sporting clubs
manage alcohol responsibly.
Displaying the Good Sports logo
sends an important message to club
members and the community. It
confirms that the club promotes a
responsible attitude towards alcohol
and provides a safe environment for
players, members, families and
supporters.
Hosts an annual home
brew and wine-making
festival
(Strategy and
Governance)
Held in collaboration with the
Darebin Ethnic Communities
Council and NMIT, the Darebin Wine
Festival is a multicultural event,
promoting wine makers and home
brewers of the Darebin community.
Is a liquor licensee
through Northcote
Town Hall and Darebin
Arts and Entertainment
Centre.
Northcote
Town Hall;
Darebin Arts
and
Entertainment
Centre
(Culture and
Leisure)
Darebin Council holds liquor
licences for these two venues and
runs a bar, on occasion to raise
funds.
August 2006
8
Monitors research and
has built a body of
knowledge on the
impacts of harmful
drinking
Community
Health and
Safety Unit
(Community
Services)
Darebin Council produces Substance
Profiles data sets triennially (next
due 2007). In addition, over the past
year, Council has been an active
participant in: Thinking Drinking
Conference, Victorian Alcohol
Summit, local email networks and
consultations with Victorian
Parliament and with the National
Alcohol Consultation.
Participates in the
Darebin Alcohol
Accord
Community
Health and
Safety Unit
(Community
Services)
Arts and
Cultural
Development
(Culture and
Leisure)
In collaboration with Victoria Police
and local venues, Darebin Council is
an active participant in regular
Alcohol Accord meetings (held
quarterly)
Liaise with venues as part of the High
Vibes Festival to ensure the harmful
impacts of alcohol consumption are
minimised through an accord-like
arrangement between venues,
Council and the Police.
Ensures responsible
serving at the High
Vibes Festival
Develops strategies to
minimise harms for
intoxicated
pedestrians
Liaises with traders
through Trader
Associations, which
may include licensed
premises, also offers
economic
development advice
Activity Centre
Structural Planning
Community
Health and
Safety Unit
(Community
Services)
This road safety project is jointly
funded by Darebin Council and
VicRoads and aims to implement
initiatives such as safe taxi ranks
near late-night venues, increased
promotion of public transport
options at venues, and responsible
service of alcohol training for new
venue staff.
Economic
Economic development provides
Development business advice, raises special
(Strategy
charges on businesses for the
and
purpose of marketing and
Governance) promotions, and guides strategies
that have an impact on local
business.
Strategic
Planning
(Strategy
and
Governance)
Strategic Planning is responsible for
setting the strategic direction of the
City's land use and development
pattern, including encouraging cafes,
bars and restaurants along High
Street in Activity Centres
Discussion
The diverse roles and influences that Council has on alcohol in Darebin
demonstrate the need for an integrated, whole-of-Council response to
alcohol issues. This Darebin Alcohol Strategy – Future Directions Report
has been prepared with these wide-ranging roles being taken into account.
August 2006
9
3.
Current alcohol issues in Darebin
Like other municipalities, Darebin grapples with alcohol issues that are
specific to our community, as well as having to consider the role alcohol
plays more generally, across Melbourne, and throughout Australia.
In particular, three alcohol-related issues present ongoing concerns within
Darebin:
Addressing the high level of alcohol-related harm in Darebin
Current public drinking issues; and
Greater choice and availability of alcohol across the community.
3.1
Addressing the high level of alcohol-related
harm in Darebin
Policy Context
Darebin Council’s Community Health and Safety Framework articulates a
policy development process that aims to improve the health and well-being
of our community. This process acknowledges the importance of an
evidence-based approach. An evidence-based approach has the following
qualities. This approach:
¾ Utilises available data on local needs from a wide variety of sources
¾ Identifies previous research and initiatives that have proven effective in
other settings
¾ Assesses these effective approaches against an understanding of the
local community’s characteristics to determine whether they are
suitable to trial locally.
There is also an important public health principle to consider in designing
initiatives that address community health and well-being. The prevention
paradox principle 14 demonstrates that while effective interventions may
have a miniscule health outcome for an individual, when looked at
epidemiologically, there can be significant gains for the health of the local
population. This is particularly true for alcohol-related harms where the bulk
of harms are felt by low and moderate drinkers. Thus, any population-wide
interventions have an impact not just on heavy drinkers, but can benefit the
whole community.
However, while being mindful of the prevention paradox, it is also important
to address the needs of people who face inequitable health outcomes due to
alcohol-related causes. Alcohol adversely impacts on people on low
incomes, young people, same-sex attracted people, men, and Indigenous
communities 15 . If the prevention paradox principle is applied, everyone in
14
“Preventing Drug-Related Harm” by Margaret Hamilton in Hamilton, M., King, T., & Ritter, A.
(2004). Drug Use in Australia: Preventing Harm. South Melbourne, Victoria: Oxford University Press.
15
Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee (2006), Inquiry into Strategies to Reduce Harmful Alcohol
Consumption – Final Report. DCPC, Parliament of Victoria.
August 2006
10
the community may benefit but it does little to redress the gap between those
in good health and these at-risk groups. Thus, it is necessary to include both
population-wide strategies as well as strategies that seek to reduce
inequitable health outcomes for the most disadvantaged in our community.
Increased availability of alcohol, and the cultural context in which drinking
takes place in Australia, is evident in drinking patterns of young people and
other at-risk groups:
The most recent Victorian Youth Alcohol and Drugs Survey (2005)
found 73% of young people reported at least one occasion on which
they drank with the specific intention of getting drunk, and 27% of
young women reported at least one occasion when they had drunk 20
or more standard drinks in one day 16 . These were both increases on
previous surveys undertaken, and demonstrate that young people are
continuing to model the behaviours of their parents and other adults
for whom alcohol is a cultural custom.
While a greater proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
abstain from drinking than is evident across the Australian
population, those who do drink often do so at higher risk levels.
Holistic healing centres are considered the most appropriate cultural
context in which to deliver initiatives that address alcohol misuse
amongst Indigenous communities 17 .
While there is little research into the harmful alcohol consumption of
gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GLBT) communities in
Australia, what research has been undertaken indicates that GLBT
people are at greater risk of alcohol-related harms than heterosexual
people 18 .
Males are more likely to meet the criteria for alcohol abuse and for
alcohol dependence than females. Internationally, alcohol
consumption patterns show that men drink more than women,
although these consumption patterns are changing for younger
women. 19
16
As reported in Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee (2006), Inquiry into Strategies to Reduce
Harmful Alcohol Consumption – Final Report. DCPC, Parliament of Victoria.
17
As reported in Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee (2006), Inquiry into Strategies to Reduce
Harmful Alcohol Consumption – Final Report. DCPC, Parliament of Victoria.
18
Ibid.
19
Ibid.
August 2006
11
Evidence-based research
While data clearly demonstrates the negative impact of alcohol on the
Darebin community (see Section One), there are a number of data
limitations:
There is a significant time lag in availability of data
Ambulance-attended data and police data is considerably underreported
Many of the alcohol datasets are regional or state-wide
None of the existing data sources have included local community
consultation feedback.
Data on alcohol consumption demonstrates the prevention paradox principle.
The Victorian Population Health Survey 2004 found that a substantial
number of Victorians are at risk of short term harms from drinking:
VICTORIANS WHO DRINK
AT RISKY OR HIGH RISK
LEVELS…
…At least yearly
…At least monthly
…At least weekly
MALES
24%
15%
16%
FEMALES
23%
10%
7%
The higher the number of liquor-related outlets (whether they are a pub, bar,
restaurant, bottle shop or sporting club) in any given area, the higher the
alcohol consumption for that local community 20 , and the higher the level of
related problems such as violence 21 . This means that if there were fewer
outlets to buy alcohol from, then there would be less alcohol consumption in
the surrounding community, and less associated harms.
Similarly, the hours of operation of liquor outlets also increase the risk of
harmful alcohol consumption, with venues open after 1 am impacting on
potential for noise disturbances, increased road littering and amenity damage
and assaults 22 .
The cost of alcohol also affects consumption, so that the higher the price, the
less alcohol of that type that is consumed 23 . This suggests that volumetric
taxes which calculate a tax on the percentage of alcohol in a given product
could play a role in reducing harmful alcohol consumption. Similarly, if the
costs to business of managing a liquor outlet had to be passed on to the
consumer through price increases, then this too could reduce harmful alcohol
consumption.
20
Alcohol and Other Drugs Council of Australia (July 2005). Submission to the National Alcohol
Strategy. Woden, ADCA
21
Australian Drug Foundation (April 2005). Response to the discussion paper by the Inner City
Entertainment Precincts Taskforce. North Melbourne, ADF.
22
Media release from National Drug Research Institute, 7 February 2006: “Longer opening hours for
pubs increased assaults by 70%: Perth study””, cited online on 31 May 2006 at
http://db.ndri.curtin.edu.au/media.asp?mediarelid=74
23
National Drug Research Institute 2000, Alcohol taxation good for your health, media release, 23
March, National Drug Research Institute, Perth, viewed 12 May 2006 at:
http://www.curtin.edu.au/curtin/centre/ndri/news/media/20000323taxation.html
August 2006
12
Responsible service of alcohol also plays a role in reducing harmful alcohol
consumption 24 . Where intoxicated people are refused service at venues or
packaged liquor outlets (including through home delivery), and where age
verification is strictly enforced, harmful alcohol consumption is similarly
reduced.
But even more important than responsible service of alcohol, is enforcement
of these laws. A review of policy-relevant strategies undertaken by the
Inquiry into Strategies to Reduce Harmful Alcohol Consumption found that
there is strong evidence that enforcement of on-premise regulations and legal
responsibilities is effective, even across cultural environments, in limiting
the harms to high-risk drinkers 25 .
Implications for this Strategy
9 The Strategy implementation plan includes population-wide
initiatives as well as strategies to support at-risk drinkers.
9 The Strategy includes initiatives to advocate for volumetric taxes on
alcohol.
3.2
Current public drinking issues
Policy Context
Public drinking is “not only a state that can lead to harmful or at least
unpleasant circumstances for the intoxicated person himself or herself, it can
also be extremely unsettling for people in the vicinity of the intoxicated
person” 26 . It is for this main reason – perceptions of safety – that from time
to time there are calls for a local law in Darebin outlawing public drinking.
Victoria remains the only state in Australia where being drunk in a public
place is a criminal offence.
Locally, there have been several areas where public drinking has been an
issue:
High Vibes Festival: This annual street festival in Northcote sees crowds of
40,000-plus in attendance. Work in 2005 encouraged alcohol not to be
available in glass containers at the Festival. Work on limiting the harmful
impacts of public drinking at this event will need to be maintained at future
festivals of this nature. A mini-Accord has been introduced for venues
hosting events at the High Vibes festival, covering security, availability of
24
Royal Australian College of Physicians (November 2005). Alcohol Policy: Using Evidence for Better
Outcomes, viewed 12 May 2006 at: http://www.racp.edu.au/hpu/policy/alcohol/environment.htm
25
26
August 2006
13
water, and use of plastic containers instead of glass. A bylaw to prohibit
drinking from open alcohol containers on the street between 6 pm and
midnight is also being proposed.
Summerhill Mall: Concerns have been raised by traders who have
complained about drinking in the Summerhill Mall. There is a licensed
premise and at least two bottle shops in the complex. Here the concern is
predominantly about groups of young people drinking in the mall while a
licensed premise is only available to sell alcohol within its premise. This
problem may be a result of too high an outlet density for the area.
Booth licences: New provisions for liquor licensing that allow unlimited
timeframes for “booth licences” are a worrying development. Booth licences
allow sporting clubs to apply for an external liquor licence so that patrons
can purchase alcohol while watching local sporting competitions. At times,
such competitions occur in Darebin’s open parklands which share spaces
with children’s playgrounds, for example.
Location-based public drinking: A problem for local police is that they
receive reports of people drinking in public spaces and attend; however,
there are no clear problems. They are then called back later in the day when
people are drunk. There are concerns regarding perceptions of safety and
assumptions that drinkers are responsible for criminal thefts or other antisocial or criminal activity. There are a number of known locations in
Darebin where people congregate publicly to drink.
Inquiries including the Inquiry into Public Drunkenness, and the more recent
Inquiry into Reducing Harmful Alcohol Consumption, both recommend that
the offence of being drunk in public and related offences be decriminalised.
It is further suggested that this occur in tandem with the establishment of
sobering-up centres.
There are a number of difficulties in implementing public drunkenness laws:
It interprets alcoholism, problem drinking and public drunkenness as
a wilful criminal act rather than as a sickness
Public drunkenness could be, and was, used selectively and
punitively against Indigenous Australians
There is ambiguity in how ‘drunkenness’ is interpreted legally
The law can act to displace the problem as public drinkers move to
other, possibly less safe, areas.
In addition, at a local laws level, there are many logistical difficulties
including:
• There is no framework as to where and why areas may be “dry” – it
may have implications for traders who are licensed to serve alcohol
outside their premises, thus promoting an inequitable society in
which those who can afford to drink at an outdoors café are legally
supported while two metres away, those who can only afford bottle
shop alcohol are criminalised for drinking publicly
August 2006
14
•
•
Local laws require individual police to be authorised under the Local
Law
Police would be required to give evidence at court if fines were not
paid.
Public drinkers outside Preston Oval: A small group of community
members currently meet near the Preston Oval and surrounds to connect
socially and drink alcohol. There are concerns for their overall health and it
is unclear what other needs they may have, such as housing support. There is
no doubt, however, that members of this group gain a lot of social benefits
from congregating together. At present, this group is visible, and fairly safe.
Crime data proves that Indigenous residents are disproportionately more
likely to be arrested or charged with drinking in public. Under the previous
“H” District of which Darebin was a part, Indigenous people on police
attendance registers taken into custody for drunkenness increased by 66%
over 4 years 27 .
Consultations in the City of Yarra with stakeholders found that addressing
public drinking through the introduction of a “dry area” local law was not
supported, and instead an approach that engages with the community in
positive activities other than drinking, or referral to support services, would
be preferable 28 . This is similar to Darebin Council’s approach to pokies and
gambling amongst culturally diverse communities 29 .
9 This Strategy will seek funding from external sources to employ a
community development worker to support public drinkers and link
them to necessary health and housing services.
9 This Strategy recommends the introduction of a Council bylaw to
prohibit drinking from open alcohol containers on High Street
during 6 pm – midnight on the day of the High Vibes Festival
9 This Strategy recommends careful appraisal of all booth licence
applications
9 This Strategy recommends continued monitoring and collaboration
with other local governments on alcohol policy, particularly in
regards to the establishment of sobering up centres as part of a move
towards decriminalising public drunkenness
27
Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee (2001), Inquiry into Public Drunkenness – Final Report.
DCPC, Parliament of Victoria.
28
City of Yarra (November 2005). Discussion Paper: Public Behaviours in Smith Street – A Service
Model. Provided by City of Yarra.
29
Brozovic-Basic, K (2005). Pokie-free Places and Activities for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse
Communities in Darebin Project. Preston: City of Darebin.
August 2006
15
3.3
Greater choice and availability of alcohol
across the community
Policy Context
As David Crosbie notes, alcohol is a mainstay of the Australian culture:
“We express concern about excessive alcohol consumption, but it
would be almost unAustralian not to get drunk after winning a
premiership, not to celebrate mateship with a beer, to have a dry
Anzac Day or a non-alcoholic New Year's Eve, to propose a soft-drink
toast to the bride and groom, or to organise an office party fuelled by
mineral water.
“The Melbourne Cup, AFL grand final, and the Australian Grand Prix
are just a few of the sporting and cultural events now owned by
alcohol companies. The important thing about alcohol in our culture is
that whether you win or lose, whether it is work or play, there is
always a reason to drink alcohol, and maybe even make a big night of
it by having a few too many. We mark most of our social occasions as
significant by using alcohol.” 30
Given this central role of alcohol in our community, it is difficult to develop
policy that seeks to minimise harms from alcohol. Victoria’s Liquor
Licensing legislation, for example, is built upon a policy context of
encouraging competition rather than enhancing the public good by
minimising alcohol-related harms. Local governments in the past have been
almost powerless to curtail the number of liquor outlets in a given area, as
licensing objections may be based solely on amenity grounds such as
sufficient car parking, and minimising noise disturbances in the vicinity of
the venue.
It is vital to recognise that alcohol is not an ordinary commodity in the
marketplace, unlike soft drinks, video rentals or other recreational goods.
The potential negative consequences of alcohol must be taken into
consideration, and its role in society as a legal drug must be respected. In
recent months, the beneficial role that alcohol can have amongst moderate
drinkers has been seriously debated, with the original researchers admitting
that the research process was flawed 31 , raising questions as to whether there
are any health benefits to alcohol at all. Many would argue, however, that
there are a range of benefits to the community from alcohol use including
socialisation and relaxation, and its economic benefits (as an employment
trigger, in taxes paid, and as an industry sector).
In line with recognising that alcohol is no ordinary commodity, the Alcohol
and Other Drugs Council of Australia cautions against national competition
30
“On drinking, example works better than ads” by David Crosbie, in The Age, 2 May 2006.
As noted in “Research raises doubts over health benefits of light drinking” on ABC Radio, 31 March
2006. Transcript available at: http://www.abc.net.au/am/content/2006/s1605429.htm
31
August 2006
16
reform being applied to liquor licenses 32 . They suggest that alcohol-related
businesses not be included in competition policies in which, usually, the
capacity to generate competition amongst business is encouraged. This
recommendation has recently been supported by the Victorian Inquiry into
Strategies to Reduce Harmful Alcohol Consumption. Both recommend that
business development and economic sustainability through alcohol-related
businesses is less of a priority than ensuring the public good by treating
alcohol with additional safeguards and through appropriate strategic
planning in order to minimise harms.
Some municipal Councils have sought to introduce greater controls on liquor
outlets by introducing a Planning Policy on Licensed Premises 33 . In reality,
such a policy has an economic development focus and is still limited under
the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 to amenity provisions.
Victoria’s Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 stipulates on what amenity
grounds objections to new liquor licences can be made, this includes:
Where the licence would be detrimental to the area (section 38(1) &
40(1))
Where the licence (if it is a packaged licence) would be conducive to
or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol (section 38(1A) &
40(1A)).
The City of Casey employs a licensing inspector to monitor new applications
for liquor and gaming licences. This role appraises new applications against
the current outlet density and unique characteristics of the surrounding
neighbourhood to determine the appropriateness of new liquor applications
and, where necessary, prepares objections based on section 38(1) and 40(1)
of the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998.
High level policy bodies at the state and national level have come to similar
conclusions regarding the worrying proliferation of liquor licences in the
community. The Federal Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy has called for
a national review of liquor licensing laws to ensure that the primary focus is
on public health goals. The recently released National Alcohol Strategy 2006
- 2009 mirrors many of the strategies proposed in this Darebin Alcohol
Strategy – Future Directions Report, including encouraging local
government to “consider the costs and benefits of liquor licensing
applications in their area, including when exercising their building and
planning authority” 34 .
32
Alcohol and Other Drugs Council of Australia (June 2004). National Competition Policy
Arrangements. Woden, ADCA.
33
City of Stonnington (August 2005). Licensed Premises Policy. Local Planning Policies – Clause
22.10. Stonnington Planning Scheme.
34
Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy (2006). National Alcohol Strategy 2006 – 2009: Towards a
Safer Drinking Culture. Cited on 19 June at: http://www.alcohol.gov.au/pdf/nas_2006_2009.pdf
August 2006
17
Across Victoria, there has been a significant growth in liquor licenses from
8,056 licences (in 1997) to 12,014 licences (in 2004). The vast majority of
growth has been in on-premises licences 35 .
In Darebin, there are approximately 313 licensed premises, or around 25
licensed premises per 10,000 people. Police report a rapid expansion in the
number of liquor license applications in recent months, and have highlighted
licensing as a priority issue in future police plans.
Darebin has the following liquor outlet density:
SUBURB
PACKAGED
SPORT
CLUBS
ONPREMISES
GENERAL
UNCLEAR
TOTAL
Fairfield
Northcote
Thornbury
Preston
Reservoir
7
8
8
11
12
3
3
5
11
11
15
32
13
26
10
6
4
2
7
5
1
11
9
10
11
32
58
37
65
49
OUTLET
DENSITY
PER
10,000
47
35
27
32
14
NB. This does not include BYO licences.
Recent research has revealed that communities with more than 22 licensed
premises per 10,000 people experienced the most crime-related problems 36 .
While there is a lack of local consultation data on perceptions of alcohol
harms and preferred community initiatives, there have been national
consultations that have asked the general population to nominate possible
measures to reduce alcohol-related harms. Respondents preferred:
Serving only low-alcohol beverages at sporting events (60.6% of
respondents)
Increasing the number of alcohol-free events (63.3%)
One third or more supported banning alcohol sponsorship at sporting
events 37 .
There are currently several businesses such as a hairdresser, florist and art
gallery that have in recent past been allocated temporary liquor licences. It is
unclear whether staff at these businesses had undertaken responsible service
of alcohol training. In a neighbouring municipality, a video rental store also
applied for a liquor licence. Disturbingly, the City of Casey has also recently
35
Growth in Liquor Licences 1986 to 2004 from Consumer Affairs Victoria. Cited on 15 May 2006 at:
http://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/CA256EB5000644CE/page/Business+Licensing+%26+RegulationLiquor+Licensing-Research+and+Statistics?OpenDocument&1=30Business+Licensing+%26+Regulation~&2=10-Liquor+Licensing~&3=80-Research+and+Statistics~
36
“Close liquor outlets to cut crime” in The Daily Telegraph, 12 May 2006
37
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data as reported in: Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy
(2006). National Alcohol Strategy 2006 – 2009: Towards a Safer Drinking Culture. Cited on 19 June
at: http://www.alcohol.gov.au/pdf/nas_2006_2009.pdf
August 2006
18
reported receiving a number of liquor licence applications from a major
supermarket retailer wanting to sell alcohol on supermarket shelves.
9 This Strategy seeks to investigate the potential of employing a
Licensing Inspector to appraise new liquor applications
9 This Strategy recommends thorough appraisals of new licenses
based on the unique characteristics of a neighbourhood and the
existing outlet density and hours of operation for liquor outlets
August 2006
19
4.
Policy Development
The following schematic demonstrates how evidence-based research has impacted on
two key areas of strategic policy development in the Darebin Alcohol Strategy –
Future Directions Report.
EVIDENCE BASED
RESEARCH
Outlet density:
The higher the
number of outlets,
the greater the
alcohol-related
harms
+
+
Public
drunkenness
legislation
criminalises
problem drinking
instead of
accepting it as a
health issue
+
Reducing alcohol
consumption
amongst low and
moderate drinkers
as well as people
at high-risk of
harms yields
greatest health
gains
+
August 2006
STRATEGY
INITIATIVES
LOCAL CONTEXT
High outlet
density in most
Darebin
suburbs
District Police
have prioritised
licensing in
local policing
plans
Changing late
night economy
in Northcote
High Vibes
Festival
requires risk
management
Public drinkers
face health,
social support
and housing
needs
Some parts of
the Darebin
community at
high-risk of
alcohol harms
Darebin has 2nd
highest death
rate in metro
Melbourne
•
•
•
•
•
Appraise new
liquor license
applications
against character of
local
neighbourhood
Investigate
Licensing Inspector
possibility
Introduce bylaw for
day of High Vibes
Festival
Seek funding to
support public
drinkers address
health needs
Balance of
initiatives between
structural
responses, health
inequalities focus
and general
population
initiatives
20
5.
Implementation Plan
The evidence base discussed above (Section Three) has been considered in
developing local action strategies across Darebin City Council. In many
cases, these initiatives must be further explored in the next three years.
It is envisaged that throughout the process of implementation of this
Strategy, Darebin Council will continue to build relationships with other
Councils to encourage a groundswell in local government action on alcohol
strategies. As this consensus builds, opportunities to create significant
impacts on harmful alcohol consumption will be increased.
This Strategy has been canvassed internally with all relevant stakeholders
and amended to reflect feedback and suggestions from across Council.
In addition, external agencies have been approached to provide feedback on
this Alcohol Strategy including:
• Inspector Gerald Zammit, Preston Police
• Geoff Munro, Convenor, Community Action on Alcohol Network
• Robin Room, Victorian Alcohol Policy Research Institute
• Anne-Marie Laslett & Paul Dietze, Turning Point Drug and Alcohol
Centre.
August 2006
21
Goal One:
STRATEGY
Develop a men’s
health strategy within
DAREBINhealth and
include alcohol
interventions
Ensure alcohol issues
are included in the
DHS Aboriginal
Services Plan for the
region
Identify strategies to
reduce harmful
alcohol consumption
amongst Aboriginal
and Torres Strait
Islander residents
Advocate for the
decriminalisation of
public drunkenness
laws in Victoria, in
conjunction with the
establishment of
sobering-up centres
To reduce health inequality
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
RESOURCES
TIMELINE
Municipal Public
Health Planner
DAREBINhealth
Steering Committee
Worker time and
resourcing of strategy
actions
December 2006
General Manager –
Community Services
Municipal Public
Health Planner
Aboriginal community
controlled agencies
Worker time
Ongoing
Municipal Public
Health Planner
Victorian Aboriginal
Health Service
Maya Centre
Worker time
Ongoing
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Communications Unit
Local Members of
Parliament
Worker time
November 2006
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
DAREBINhealth
Steering Committee
consider men’s health
in strategic planning
for 2007/08
Letter sent to
Advisory Committee
Aboriginal Health
component of
DAREBINhealth
Strategy reflects
determinants of
alcohol harms
Letters written to
Members of
Parliament
encouraging repeal of
public drunkenness
laws
Goal One:
STRATEGY
To reduce health inequality
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
RESOURCES
TIMELINE
Affirm that public
drinking bylaws not
be introduced in
Darebin
Darebin Council
Local Laws
Victoria Police
Seek funding for a
community
development worker
to engage with
outreach services
and encourage social
connection (other
than through drinking)
for Darebin’s public
drinkers
Work regionally on
public drinking
issues, including
ensuring accessible
sobering-up centres
are available
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Darebin Community
Health
Youth Substance
Abuse service
Ambulance Service
Worker time
March 2007
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Senior Policy Officer
– Community Health
& Safety
City of Yarra
City of Moreland
City of Melbourne
Street People’s
Collective
Local Government
Drug issues Forum
Worker time
Ongoing
August 2006
July 2006
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Council passes a
motion affirming that
there will not be an
introduction of public
drinking bylaws
Procedure
documented on
engaging with public
drinkers
Documented
approach to public
drinking agreed
regionally
Accessible and
appropriately-funded
sobering up centres
available locally
23
Goal Two:
STRATEGY
Build collaborative efforts
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
RESOURCES
TIMELINE
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Undertake snapshot
research with
ambulance and police
to document the
impact of alcohol on
callouts
Seek funding to
undertake community
consultation –
including with at-risk
groups – to identify
impact alcohol has on
Darebin residents
and to discuss
community strategies
Contribute to
research to identify
appropriate outlet
density for Darebin
Community Health
and Safety Unit
Victoria Police
Metropolitan
Ambulance Service –
Preston Team
Turning Point
Approximately
$20,000 needed for a
short-term snapshot
study, including
analysis
December 2006
Project brief and
funding proposal
developed to
undertake snapshot
research
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Alcohol and Drug
Coordination
Committee
Identified external
funding bodies
Worker time
July 2007
Proposals developed
and funding
opportunities
identified
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Worker time
October 2007
Agreement reached
on appropriate outlet
density per 10,000
head of population
Continue to co-host
Alcohol Accords
Community Health
and Safety Officer
Community Action on
Alcohol Network
Turning Point Alcohol
Policy Research
Institute
Victoria Police
Local venues
Sporting clubs
Restaurants
Consumer Affairs
Bureau – Liquor
Licensing
Worker time
Council venue
Ongoing
No. of Accord
meetings held
Percentage of liquor
licensees
participating
Percentage of Accord
members
August 2006
24
Goal Two:
STRATEGY
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
RESOURCES
TIMELINE
Advocate with
stakeholders and
ADCC members for a
volumetric tax on
alcohol to be further
investigated at the
national level
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Communications Unit
Alcohol and Drug
Coordination
Committee members
Worker time
Printing costs
Mailout
September 2007
Develop a new
licensees kit
Community Health
and Safety Officer
Statutory Planning
Victoria Police
Alcohol Accord
members
Worker time
Printing
February 2007
August 2006
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Develop advocacy
toolkit (sample letter,
sample petitions,
people to influence
checklist)
Number of
participants using
advocacy toolkit
Documented new
licensees kit available
and published online
Percentage of new
applicants sent a
copy of the new
licensee kit
Percentage of new
applicants who sign
up to the Alcohol
Accord
25
Goal Two:
STRATEGY
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
Fund a
DAREBINsubstance
Project Coordinator
within CHSU
Darebin City Council
and Safety
Investigate the
potential of funding a
gaming and licensing
inspector
Statutory Planning
and Safety
Raise awareness of
potential impacts of
selling liquor on
supermarket shelves
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Communications Unit
August 2006
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
RESOURCES
TIMELINE
Approx. $66,000
March 2007
City of Casey
Approx. $66,000
March 2007
City of Casey
City of Frankston
Community Action on
Alcohol Network
Worker time
December 2006
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Business case put
forward to Council to
fund an ongoing
project coordinator
with Community
Health and Safety to
address substance
issues
Business case put
forward to Council to
fund an ongoing
gaming and licensing
inspector to review
licence applications
and ensure suitability
(this could also
include sex-onpremises licences)
Coordinated
communications
campaign to raise
awareness of the
potential harms
generated from liquor
sales on supermarket
shelves
26
Goal Two:
STRATEGY
Develop an OD policy
on workplace alcohol
issues including
assisting staff with
alcohol problems (or
who are subject to a
family
member/friend’s
alcohol abuse) to
locate appropriate
treatment support
August 2006
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
Community Health
and safety Project
Coordinator
EMT
Organisational
Development
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
Australian Drug
Foundation
TIMELINE
RESOURCES
Worker time
2008
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Organisational Policy
on workplace alcohol
developed and
endorsed
27
Goal Three:
STRATEGY
Consult with public
drinkers to determine
potential amenity
improvements to
divert drinking to
more healthy social
activities
Advocate to State
Government to
increase powers of
local government in
relation to liquor
licensing approvals,
particularly in relation
to caps on liquor
outlets, approval of
licences and for
businesses where
alcohol is not a core
business
August 2006
Strengthen community amenity
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
TIMELINE
RESOURCES
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Strategic Planning
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Public drinkers
Initially Worker time
but consultations may
indicate amenity
resourcing
requirements
June 2007
No. of public drinkers
consulted
Findings of
consultation included
in structural planning
activities
Community Health
and Safety
Statutory Planning
Communications Unit
Community Action on
Alcohol Network
Local Government
Drug Issues Forum
Municipal Association
of Victoria
Victorian Local
Governance
Association
Consumer Affairs
Bureau – Liquor
Licensing
Worker time
2008
No. of partners
advocating on this
issue
No. of media
statements on this
issue
No. of residents
supporting this
approach
Liquor Licensing
Laws changed
appropriately
28
Goal Three:
STRATEGY
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
TIMELINE
RESOURCES
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Investigate
introduction of a
surcharge for all
liquor licences and
use the charge to
fund the
implementation of the
Local Area Action
Plan and to support
Alcohol Accord
activities
Introduce liquor
licence planning
policy with caps on
outlet density based
on amenity grounds
Strategic Planning
Economic
development
and Safety
Traders Associations
Worker time
2008
Internal discussion
held on possible
introduction of a
charge
Council report
prepared and tabled
on the advantages
and disadvantages of
introducing a charge
for liquor outlets
Statutory Planning
Strategic Planning
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Worker time
September 2006
Liquor License
Premises Policy
endorsed by Council
Encourage police to
enforce intoxicated
serving laws
Encourage liquor
licensees within
Darebin Council to
participate in Alcohol
Accord meetings
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Northcote Town Hall
Darebin Arts and
Entertainment centre
Darebin Hallkeepers
Victoria Police
Consumer Affairs
Bureau – Liquor
Licensing
Liquor Licensing
applicants
Victoria Police, esp.
Licensing Inspectors
Worker time
Ongoing
No. of planned
enforcement events
Darebin Alcohol
Accords
Worker time
Ongoing
No. of internal
licensees attending
Accord meetings
August 2006
29
Goal Three:
STRATEGY
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
RESOURCES
TIMELINE
Develop standard
objections letters and
review approvals
process for new
liquor licensing
applications, to be
used in conjunction
with specialist reports
on uniqueness of the
local area
Develop and maintain
an electronic
communications
protocol with Victoria
Police to review new
liquor licence
applications
Statutory Planning
Strategic Planning
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Victoria Police
Consumer Affairs
Bureau – Liquor
Licensing
Worker time
Barrister fees if
lodging objections to
Liquor Licensing
Tribunal
November 2006
Statutory Planning
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Victoria Police
Worker time
Ongoing
Prepare
communications
strategy and media
toolkit in case of
rejection (or
upholding) of test
cases at Liquor
Licensing Tribunal
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Statutory Planning
Communications Unit
Victoria Police
Community Action on
Alcohol Network
Worker time
September 2006
August 2006
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Approvals process
agreed internally
Standard letters
generated and filed
on objective
% of relevant new
liquor applications
objected to on
amenity grounds due
to caps levels
Protocol agreed
between statutory
planning and Victoria
Police
Percentage of
licences that are
jointly reviewed by
Council and Police
Documented
communications
strategy prepared
Number of articles in
mainstream media
discussing test case
findings
30
Goal Three:
STRATEGY
Advocate for rejection
of section 52(27) in
Victorian planning
policy that recognises
packaged liquor
outlets being
classified “as of right
use”
August 2006
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Strategic Planning
Communications Unit
Community Action on
Alcohol Network
Turning Point Alcohol
Policy Research
Institute
RESOURCES
Worker time
TIMELINE
2007/2008
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
No. of partners
advocating on this
issue
No. of media
statements on this
issue
Rejection of section
52(27) of planning
policy
31
Goal Four:
STRATEGY
Celebrate community life
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
Encourage Darebin
Council venues at
High Vibes Festival to
be alcohol-free and
family-focused
Ensure a range of
alcohol-free spaces
and activities at High
Vibes Festival
Introduce mini-Accord
with High Vibes
partner venues and
include as a licence
condition in awarding
future temporary
licences
Culture and Leisure
Northcote Town hall
Community Health
and Safety Officer
High Vibes Festival
Committee
Northcote licensed
venues
Culture and Leisure
High Vibes Festival
Committee
Culture and Leisure
Statutory Planning
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Future funding
agreements for High
Vibes management
stipulates that there
not be a major
alcohol sponsor
Culture and Leisure
August 2006
RESOURCES
TIMELINE
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Worker time
Loss in alcohol-based
revenue from
Northcote Town Hall
at High Vibes
Worker time
September 2006
No. of Council-run
alcohol-free events at
High Vibes Festival
July – September
2006
No. of alcohol-free
events at High Vibes
Festival
High Vibes Festival
venues
Victoria Police
Consumer Affairs
Bureau – Liquor
Licensing
Worker time
July 2006
High Vibes Festival
Organiser
Worker time
June 2007
Documented miniAccord signed by all
venues
Percentage of
temporary licences
granted with licence
conditions reflecting
mini-Accord
Condition of grants
from 2007 onwards
stipulates no alcohol
major sponsor
32
Goal Four:
STRATEGY
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
RESOURCES
TIMELINE
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Work towards
ensuring all High
Vibes venues have
added licence
conditions reflecting
the mini-Accord in
their licence
conditions
Encourage sporting
clubs to serve only
low-alcohol
beverages or no
alcohol during
competition times
Culture and Leisure
Statutory Planning
and Safety
High Vibes venues
Victoria Police
Consumer Affairs
Bureau – Liquor
Licensing
Worker time
July 2007
Percentage of licence
conditions updated to
reflect mini-Accord
Leisure Services
Community Health
and Safety Project
Coordinator
Worker time
Ongoing
Percentage of
sporting clubs
agreeing to serving
low or no alcohol
Encourage and
support sporting
clubs to participate in
Good Sports
accreditation program
Ensure responsible
drinking messages
are conveyed at
Darebin Winemaking
Festival
Leisure Services
Sporting clubs
Victoria Police
Consumer Affairs
Bureau – Liquor
Licensing
Good Sports Program
(ADF)
Sporting Clubs
Good Sports Program
(ADF)
Worker time
Ongoing
Number of sporting
clubs at level 1, 2 and
3 of Good Sports
Accreditation
Australian Drug
Foundation DrugInfo
Clearinghouse
Northern Metropolitan
Institute of TAFE
Worker time
Possible cost in
purchasing leaflets
July – September
2006, and annually
Percentage of
participants provided
with responsible
drinking information
August 2006
Strategy and
Governance
33
Goal Four:
STRATEGY
Ensure variety of
non-alcoholic
beverages are
available from
Council’s liquor
licensed outlets,
including free and
readily accessible
water
August 2006
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
Northcote Town Hall
Darebin Arts and
Entertainment Centre
Darebin Hallkeepers
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
RESOURCES
Worker time
TIMELINE
Ongoing
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS
Review of available
drinks undertaken
Updated policy to not
refill alcohol glasses
until empty to ensure
ease of counting of
standard drinks
34
6.
Monitoring and Evaluation
Monitoring and evaluation activities as part of this Strategy will include:
Darebin City Council will incorporate monitoring of this Strategic Plan
within its Community health and safety Unit, using the key performance
indicators outlined in this Strategy.
Progress reports will be tabled at Darebin Alcohol and Drug coordination
Committee meetings, held bimonthly.
An annual progress report will be tabled at Darebin Council meetings.
Darebin City Council will seek collaboration with the Victorian Alcohol
Policy research institute to develop an evaluation plan to review the
impact of this Strategy on alcohol-related harms.
The implementation of this Strategy will be discussed with the
Municipal Association of Victoria’s Local Government Drug issues
Forum to build collegial relationships with other Councils seeking to
respond to alcohol harms.
Multilingual Statement
This strategy outlines Darebin City Council’s commitment to reducing harms to the
community from alcohol consumption. It includes a list of Council strategies for
future action. For more information in your language call Council’s Multilingual
Telephone Line on 8470 8470.
August 2006
36