Peter Miller and colleagues write in The Conversation (12.8.19) the first in a series of articles based on a recently released comprehensive evaluation of the Queensland government’s 2016 policy reforms to tackle alcohol-fuelled violence, and about the implications for alcohol regulation and the night-time economy in Queensland and Australia.
‘Under the “Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence” policy, which among other things introduced statewide restrictions on trading hours, Queensland has recorded reductions in assaults, ambulance attendances and hospital admissions. These reductions represent a substantial cost saving to the Queensland community. At the same time, tourism and the number of liquor licences have continued to grow in many areas.
‘Despite this, levels of alcohol-related harm still remain too high, which calls for further effort.
‘In this article we describe the report findings from “archival” data – data collected by government services. The next three articles will:
- describe the data from patron interviews, highlighting levels of intoxication and harm;
- highlight the unwanted sexual attention reported by patrons; and
- explore the impact on live music.
The Queensland government has provided an interim response to the report’s 38 recommendations. Community consultation will continue to the end of 2019.’
- Lessons from Queensland on alcohol, violence and the night-time economy »
- Queenslanders are among our heaviest drinkers on nights out, and changing that culture is a challenge »
- Tighter alcohol licensing hasn’t killed live music, but it’s harder for emerging artists »
- All in it together: why stopping alcohol’s harms needs everyone »
- Last drinks not lockouts reduce alcohol-fuelled violence »
- Inquiry calls for Queensland to decriminalise public intoxication »