Government defends Banned Drinkers Register as scheme rolls out in Carnarvon

abc.net.au - 24/05
Just 12 people in the Gascoyne have been added to the register, and fewer than 300 are on it across Western Australia as a trial of the scheme expands.

The WA government has defended its support and expansion of the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) as questions continue over its effectiveness in other areas of the state.

Key points:

  • The banned drinkers register trial has been expanded to Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction
  • It's part of the liquor restrictions introduced earlier this month
  • The WA government is looking to increase the ways people can be added to BDR after criticism it's been ineffective in other areas

Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction, more than 800km north of Perth, are the latest towns to have the scheme rolled out.

It is part of a government strategy to combat ongoing crime and violence in the region.

The expansion has resulted in 12 people being added.

There are fewer than 300 on the register across the Kimberley, Pilbara and Goldfields, where the scheme also operates.

Racing and Gaming Minister Reece Whitby has conceded there have been issues, but said measures to strengthen the scheme were expected to come into effect later this year after legislation was introduced t...
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