Community leaders from Kadjina Aboriginal community raised concerns with the government of Western Australia about the heavy health and social harm due to alcohol in their community . Heeding the calls, the government held consultations with community leaders on the proposal to implement improved alcohol policy solutions.
Following consultations the state government declared the community of Kadjina in the Shire of Derby-West Kimberley a “liquor restricted area” under section 175 of the Liquor Control Act 1988, which prohibits liquor from being brought into, possessed or consumed in the area. The ban will be implemented from November 7 onwards for five years. The move was supported by Western Australian Police and the Shire.
Kadjina is located on Millijidee Station, about 190kms south-west of Fitzroy Crossing. It has a population of around 50-90 people.
This brings the total number of communities in Australia that have gone alcohol-free to 26.
Kadjina residents have the right to feel safe in their community and I’m pleased that community leaders have taken charge of this issue by raising their concerns,” said Paul Papalia, Minister of Racing and Gaming, Western Australian Government, as per the media statement by the Western Australian Government.
Alcohol abuse can have devastating impacts on remote communities and section 175 restrictions give community leaders the power to combat these destructive behaviours head on.”
Paul Papalia, Minister of Racing and Gaming, Western Australian Government
