Restrictions put on freedom of Choice

WA Police confirmed it had lodged a request with the Director of Liquor Licensing and ‘other matters’ were being considered by the director.

The office of Police Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan would not reveal how many stores could be affected.

Considerations taken into account included time, place and circumstance, impact to the community, alcohol related harm, appropriateness to use Section 64, and whether there were other appropriate or viable options available.

WA Police has successfully changed the licensing conditions at some Liquorland stores, under section 64 of the Liquor Control Act.

The request at Mandurah Liquorland was lodged in March, and a ban on juveniles was imposed at Belmont Liquorland on June 23.

The changes to licensing conditions mean all children under 18 years are banned from entering or staying on the premises, irrespective of whether they are with a parent.

Spirits must also be locked away and a security guard hired.

The licensee of the Mandurah and Belmont stores has appealed, preferring a national approach.

All three stores are owned by Coles.