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We’ve got some big booze news: South Australia has just passed a groundbreaking alcohol delivery reform aimed at reducing harm from domestic, family and sexual violence (DFSV). It’s the first law of its kind across the country and sets new standards for on-demand liquor with capped delivery times and a mandatory two-hour delay on orders.
The South Australian government made these changes to the Liquor Licensing Act 1997 following recommendations from the state’s Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence. This landmark inquiry was held after six South Australians died in DFSV-related incidents over a single week in late 2023.
Under the Liquor Licensing (Royal Commission Recommendations) Amendment Bill, late-night liquor drops are officially off the table. South Australia has ended 24-hour alcohol delivery, restricting same-day drop-offs to a 10am–10pm window and introducing a mandatory two-hour buffer, described as a “safety pause”, between order and delivery.
Mary Leaker, CEO of Embolden – South Australia's peak body for specialist DFSV services – said: “With alcohol involved in up to 65 per cent of all reported domestic and family violence incidents, this is an important step toward safer homes and communities. It’s now time for other states and territories to follow South Australia’s lead.”
The new legislation has been welcomed by advocates, survivors and public health organisations. Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education CEO Ayla Chorley said: “These measures are common-sense and modest, but the impact they will have cannot be overstated. This is genuinely life-changing reform.”
However, the alcohol retail and wine sectors have criticised the changes. Retail Drinks Australia CEO Michael Waters said: “This measure will not solve the underlying [DFSV] problem and will only penalise responsible consumers and businesses, denying both their respective freedoms.”
The industry body also raised concerns about the lack of a clear enforcement model to support the new legislation, noting that the South Australian Government has been “unable to answer how it will effectively regulate the two-hour delivery delay,” which would require real-time tracking of every liquor transaction.
If you or someone you know needs support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, the National 24/7 Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline on 1800 250 015 or 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.