Kym Valentine, a former star of the television series Neighbours, has urged both state and federal governments to expedite actions aimed at reducing gender-based violence. Her case is especially appealing given the major reform that has been recently proposed in South Australia (SA). These changes are intended to make the alcohol ordering and delivery hours more clear and flexible. Valentine hopes that other states and territories will take a long, hard look at these reforms and pursue similar legislation in their own jurisdictions.
The proposed amendments in South Australia would create an Alcohol Ordering Time (AOT). So rather than just taking orders from 8 am to 10 pm, the new hours would be 10 am to 10 pm. Further, they’d create a two-hour minimum delay between ordering alcohol and having it delivered. These amendments are an important step towards reducing the harm caused by alcohol and subsequent acts of violence, especially when it comes to family and domestic violence.
A National Call to Action
Valentine raised the need for immediate action to end gender-based violence in Australia. She stated, “We’re at a crisis point with family and domestic violence in this country, and what that means is that we have to look at all options.” Her message rings especially true with countless advocates working to reform the law, considered a pivotal first step to eradicate this widespread practice.
In September 2024, leaders from all states and territories agreed to review their laws related to alcohol delivery as part of a broader strategy to take practical steps against gender-based violence. This agreement in the collective marks an increasing awareness of how domestic violence events are often worsened by increased alcohol availability.
Valentine highlighted the importance of timely action, remarking, “Lives actually depend on you fulfilling the promise that you made.” She believes that the proposed changes in SA could serve as a model for other regions, stating, “This is just one of the levers that state and territory governments can consider and can pull at this point in time.”
Concerns Over Lobby Influence
Ayla Chorley, the CEO of the Foundation for Alcohol Research & Education, welcomes Valentine’s comments. She encourages other states considering similar reforms to look at the detail of South Australia’s proposed reforms. She expressed alarm at the overwhelming influence of powerful alcohol lobby groups. She warned that these actors could align to thwart needed reforms.
Chorley remarked, “We have no doubt that they are pushing very much for these reforms to be weakened.” And though the statewide alcohol industry strongly opposed, they lost when the two-hour delivery buffer provision passed. They claim that this provision would be devastating to their businesses.
Alistair Coe, who represents the alcohol industry, noted that it has been several years since liquor laws in South Australia underwent review. He expressed support for the review, but warned against making quick adjustments that would upend proven practices.
Legislative Timeline and Next Steps
A national “rapid review” in May 2024 called for systemic changes to stop violence against women before it starts. Owing to this effort, South Australia is currently considering and adopting these proposed reforms. Fishing for innovation South Australia has been leading the charge, recently releasing a draft bill for consultation. This decision is meant to serve as an example for other jurisdictions to join.
The deadline for the bill is for it to be introduced to parliament and passed before the next state election, due March 2026. If it doesn’t, the bill will die. With consultation on these amendments already closed, comments from builders, environmental groups and other stakeholders are reported to be still under consideration. Its introduction later this year will help shape the discussion and future legislation on the complex issue of alcohol delivery. It would have disastrous consequences for campaigns to end domestic violence.
Valentine articulated a strong connection between alcohol availability and domestic violence incidents, stating, “Abuse may be the bomb, alcohol the fuse, but delivery is like the guided missile that is the match.” Her vivid metaphor underscores the need for strong alcohol delivery regulations. This is an important first step in an overall commitment to end gender-based violence.
