Corner stores that sell alcohol in the Territory will now have the chance to ask the NT Government to buy-back their liquor licences.
A new scheme announced today will give operators four weeks to express interest in having the government purchase their licence, with all offers to be made in confidence.
The government says the move aims to reduce the number of alcohol takeaway outlets across the NT and alcohol-related harm.
The announcement comes after the reporting period for liquor sales was changed to quarterly in January.
Corner stores have a 25 per cent cap on grog sales, which aims to ensure alcohol is an ancillary product for grocery items.
The government expects there could be further alcohol changes once a 3-year review of the Liquor Act is complete.
Chief and Minister for Alcohol Policy Natasha Fyles has described the government’s alcohol reforms as “world-leading.”
“This included measures like the Banned Drinkers Register, risk-based licensing and Police Auxiliary Liquor Inspectors – but we know there is still more work to do.”
“Given the ongoing alcohol-related harm we’re seeing in the Territory, particularly over the last few months this buy-back scheme will likely see a decrease in alcohol sales.”
Business owners seeking more information about the buy-back scheme are encouraged to contact – DirectorLiquorLicensing.DITT@nt.gov.au
