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Source: Reuters
The boss of the Drug Foundation has slammed the alcohol reform bill saying the only way to crack down on the binge drinking culture is to make alcohol more expensive.
Drug Foundation executive director Ross Bell is suggesting higher tax on alcohol, a system he says works well in other countries where binge drinking is not an issue.
Bell said the cost of alcohol needs to be moved out of the realm of "pocket-money prices".
Legislation that will enact the government's proposed liquor law changes was introduced to parliament yesterday.
Justice Minister Simon Power said it is just the starting point for the reform, which is expected to have its first reading as soon as next week. It will then go to a select committee for six months for public submissions.
The proposals include splitting the alcohol purchasing age to 18 for bars and 20 for off-licences, limiting the alcohol content of RTDs, banning particularly harmful products, reducing opening hours and putting new rules around the supply of liquor to minors.
"This government sees overhauling our alcohol laws as a priority, particularly for addressing the drivers of crime because alcohol is a major lubricant for offending," Power said.
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