Banned Drinkers Register Becomes Permanent in Western Australia’s Kimberley and Pilbara Regions

The Western Australian government has made the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) permanent, following successful trials in the Kimberley, Pilbara, and Goldfields regions, as well as the towns of Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction. The decision, announced in July 2025, is based on positive impacts observed during the trial period and widespread support from the community and stakeholders.

What is the Banned Drinkers Register?

The Banned Drinkers Register is a system designed to reduce alcohol-related harm in designated areas of Western Australia. It operates in areas prescribed as banned drinker areas under the Liquor Control Regulations 1989, including the Kimberley and Pilbara regions . When purchasing takeaway alcohol, individuals are required to present identification that is scanned to check if they are on the register. If a person is listed, the sale is refused.

Key Findings and Support for Permanency

Two independent evaluations revealed strong support for the BDR from various groups, including the WA Police Force, local governments, health service providers, and the liquor and hospitality industries. The BDR is considered a key component of the WA Government’s broader strategy to address alcohol-related health issues, antisocial behavior, and family and domestic violence.

How Banned Drinker Orders (BDOs) are Issued

A Banned Drinker Order (BDO) can be issued in several ways:

• By Police: For any alcohol-related offense.
• By Medical Professionals & Social Workers: Applications can be made to the Director of Liquor Licensing for patients or clients.
• Self-Imposed: Individuals can voluntarily apply for a BDO to manage their alcohol consumption.

Recent Enforcement Activity and Crackdowns

Recent enforcement efforts in January 2026 resulted in over 150 Banned Drinker Orders being issued across Broome, Derby, and Fitzroy Crossing . Police also issued infringement notices for selling alcohol to banned drinkers and for venues failing to address indecent behavior. Operations targeting remote communities uncovered significant quantities of illegally moved alcohol.

Addressing Alcohol-Related Harm

Kimberley District Superintendent John Hutchison emphasized the importance of reducing alcohol availability to combat violence in the region. He stated that illegal alcohol activity “destroys families and fuels violence in vulnerable communities” and warned those profiting from it to expect to be caught .

Looking Ahead

With the Banned Drinkers Register now permanent, the WA government aims to continue reducing alcohol-related harm and improving community safety in the Kimberley, Pilbara, and Goldfields regions. The program will remain a locally driven initiative, adapting to the specific needs of each community.