Banned Drinkers Register (BDR)

The WA Government has announced changes that will widen the scope of the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR), which currently operates in the Pilbara, Kimberley and Goldfield regions of Western Australia. Consultation on the proposed changes is now open (Plans to strengthen Banned Drinkers Register out for consultation, WA Government media statement, 29 September 2022)).

Milliya Rumurra Aboriginal Corporation is a member of WANADA and offers residential alcohol and other drug treatment, as well as a sobering up shelter and other services in Broome. CEO Andrew Amor spoke to the ABC about the Banned Drinkers Register and what he believes is needed for his local community:

“We really need to be looking at some of the underlying causes of excessive drinking and domestic violence and other violence,” he said.

“That’s where we should be putting resources, so we don’t get to the stage where people need to go onto the BDR.”

Read more in WA’s banned drinkers register to be overhauled as figures reveal less than 200 people on list, ABC Pilbara, 29 September 2022.

The WA Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries consultation on the Banned Drinkers Register closes 2:30pm, Thursday 27 October 2022.