The growing list of Alcohol Free Zones (AFZs) in Sydney has been a creeping imposition on the freedom of the community to use public space without any evidence that it achieves other positive public policy objectives.
Most parks around the CBD, Kings Cross and Redfern have been designated AFZs, as well as Martin Place, sections of The Rocks and Circular Quay. AFZs cover much of Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Redfern, Waterloo, parts of Glebe and Newtown, main city roads, and roads around the casino. The City of Sydney has an extensive and effective Street Safety Camera program in which most public places are already monitored.
Banning people from drinking in public does not alleviate problem drinking and the harm flowing from it. Rather it moves the issue around the corner or into domestic settings. It is in these settings where vulnerable partners and children may be exposed to harm. Instead of prohibiting alcohol in these public places, the city and state government should consider evidence-based harm minimisation approaches which provide services and support to people who need help.
The NSWCCL believes it is oppressive for the police to have the power to seize alcohol in the possession of any person observed to be drinking in an AFZ and dispose of it. The confiscation of alcohol creates animosity and conflict between police and those who already have it tough on the streets, and who might otherwise have a better relationship with law enforcement.
In terms of law enforcement, whilst we support other remedies available which are more oriented towards harm reduction and less open to discriminatory enforcement, police already have options. Under section 9 of the Summary Offences Act, anyone found to be intoxicated and disorderly in the same place or anywhere else public within 6 hours of having been given a moving on order can be fined up to $1650. Under the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act, sections 198 and 206, a person may be detained and released into the care of a responsible person.
Read our submission here.
