Foreword

Alcohol misuse is a major problem for our community. It is closely linked to crimes such as assault, malicious damage, and offensive behaviour. Almost one third of alcohol-related assaults occur on licensed premises, such as hotels and clubs.

We found that the number of non-domestic violence alcohol-related assaults has almost doubled over the last ten years. One way to reduce alcohol-related crime is to prevent people from reaching undesirable levels of intoxication. This is best achieved by licensees adopting responsible service of alcohol practices.

Both the NSW Police Force and NSW Office of Liquor Gaming and Racing regulate the liquor industry and work with licensees to minimise the harm caused by alcohol. This report explores how well they are working together and highlights some of the challenges they face in tackling this complex social issue.

Peter Achterstraat

Auditor-General

April 2008