‘Tis the season

The festive season is fast approaching, so make sure you take the time to refresh your understanding about providing refreshments.

With recent changes to legislation around blood alcohol levels, knowing what’s legal and responsible will help keep you, your family and others safe.

From 1 December the blood alcohol level for people over 20 will be lowered from 80 milligrams per 100ml of blood to 50 milligrams. A zero tolerance for people under 20 has been in place since 2011.

“Be a responsible host and ensure that guests have access to non-alcoholic drinks, food and safe transport home or a bed to sleep in” says Wayne Jameson, head of Environmental Protection Services.

“It’s also a case of knowing who you can supply alcohol to. The legal age of purchase is 18, and you can only supply alcohol to a minor if you’re their legal guardian. If you’re a friend, or an aunt, uncle, cousin, or grandparent and you’re not raising the young person, then you’re not a legal guardian”.

Alcohol can be supplied at private functions on private property – such as at reunions, celebrations, barbeques and get-togethers. If you’re planning to sell or supply alcohol in a public space or in commercial premises, then you need to contact Council to ensure that you’re not breaking the law.

Council administers the local Liquor Control Bylaw, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol in the central business district outside of licensed premises.

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