The National Alliance for Action on Alcohol (NAAA) has joined other public health groups today calling for other Australian jurisdictions to follow the lead of the Northern Territory Government and introduce a minimum unit price on alcohol to support the health of their communities.
An independent report released today shows that the implementation of a minimum unit price on alcohol in the Territory has been associated with significant reductions in alcohol-related assaults, ambulance attendances, emergency department presentations, road traffic crashes and child protection notifications.
NAAA Co-Chair Jane Martin has welcomed these important reductions in harm for the Northern Territory community.
“Alcohol related harm has had a devastating impact on Northern Territory communities, with the Territory experiencing the highest rate of alcohol-fuelled hospitalisations and deaths.”
“Minimum Unit pricing, along with other harm reduction initiatives in the Northern Territory, is helping to build healthier and safer communities.”
Since a minimum unit price on alcohol was introduced in the Northern Territory in October 2018, a standard alcoholic drink cannot be legally sold for less than $1.30.
“The Northern Territory government should be congratulated on its leadership and commitment to improving the lives of its citizens,” Ms Martin said.
The NAAA is now urging all states and territories to introduce a minimum unit price on alcohol, as part of a comprehensive suite of alcohol harm-reduction measures.
