The CLP government's new nuisance public drinking laws have been passed in NT Parliament.
Minister for Alcohol Policy Steve Edgington made the announcement this week, saying the laws were about "making our public spaces and parks safer and cleaner for everyone".
"These powers will allow police to intervene earlier to ensure we stop this scourge in public places where alcohol is prohibited," said Mr Edgington.
The new nuisance public drinking offence will give police powers to fine, charge and arrest people in public places where alcohol is prohibited.
Police will have the power to issue a fine of up to $925, impose a seven-day Banned Drinker Order, as well as tipping out the alcohol.
Justice advocates have raised concerns that the new nuisance public drinking laws, combined with the NT government's plan to abolish the alcohol floor price, will lead to a spike in arrests, clogging an already over-loaded justice system.
Mr Edginton said the government aims to "reduce the harm being caused by alcohol in our community and enforce a higher community standard".
"Territorians want to move freely around their communities, go to the shops, and enjoy our parks and public spaces without being confronted by unacceptable alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour," he said.
"Importantly, this will not stop Territorians from having a beer while enjoying our unique outdoor lifestyle at places like East Point."
The definition of public place includes any public place (or vehicle at a public place) in Alice Springs, Darwin, Katherine, Palmerston, Tennant Creek, any public place within 2km of a licensed venue, or any other place prescribed by regulation or by a local council.
Existing local council exemptions, which allow people to consume alcohol at specific exclusion times, remain in place at East Point, Nightcliff foreshore, during the Mindil Beach Markets, Leliyn campground in Nitmiluk National Park, and the Alice Springs Telegraph Station picnic area.
The new public drinking offence will not apply in these areas during the specific exclusion times, however, existing laws to manage antisocial behaviour can be enforced.
