The Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) is calling for urgent alcohol delivery reforms in Victoria. These changes aim to tackle the rising harm caused by on-demand alcohol services. This push follows the tragic death of Kathleen Arnold, a young Victorian woman who died from “alcohol toxicity in the context of chronic alcohol consumption.”

Coroner Ingrid Giles has outlined critical steps to address these issues. Her proposals include banning alcohol deliveries between 10pm and 10am and enforcing a mandatory two-hour delay between order placement and dispatch. Additionally, she recommends creating an Alcohol Action Plan with clear reforms, deadlines, accountability, and public updates.

FARE CEO Caterina Giorgi stressed the urgent need for these reforms. She called Ms. Arnold’s death a preventable tragedy and explained how current delivery systems increase harm. “Kathleen Arnold was a young woman in her 30s who lost her life – this is absolutely devastating and should never have happened,” Giorgi stated.

“Our system allows people to use their phones like bottle shops and receive alcohol at home within 30 minutes,” she explained. “This level of convenience makes cutting back or quitting very difficult for those who are struggling.” She emphasized that adopting alcohol delivery reforms would make services safer.

FARE has consistently warned about the dangers of on-demand alcohol delivery. Families impacted by alcohol-related harm have echoed these concerns while urging stronger regulations. Highlighting the delays, Giorgi asked, “How many more lives will it take? How many inquiries and reviews must the government conduct before prioritizing our communities’ health?”

FARE is now urging the Victorian Government to act without delay by adopting these reforms. They believe implementing the Coroner’s recommendations would significantly reduce harm and protect public health. Learn more about FARE’s policy work here, or explore their harm reduction initiatives.

Quick action by the government would allow it to address rising alcohol-related harm while safeguarding community health and safety.

Source: fare