Shellharbour City Council is inviting the local community to share their views on proposed changes to Alcohol-Free Zones (AFZs) and Alcohol Prohibited Areas (APAs) across the city.
The Council says AFZs and APAs help keep streets, parks, and public spaces safe and welcoming by reducing alcohol-related issues such as anti-social behaviour. Every four years, Council reviews the zones to make sure they continue to meet the needs of the community, in line with relevant legislation and Ministerial Guidelines.
Council has developed the proposals with input from Lake Illawarra Police and analysis of relevant data, including crime data, community views, licensed venue locations, and site audits. Some zones are proposed to remain unchanged, while others may be adjusted or newly
introduced. The proposals will be placed on public exhibition for 30 days from Wednesday 27 August until Friday 26 September.
Shellharbour Mayor, Chris Homer said community feedback was an essential part of the review process.
“Alcohol-Free Zones and Alcohol Prohibited Areas are about making sure our public spaces can be enjoyed safely by everyone,” Mayor Homer said.
“This review is an opportunity for the community to tell us if the proposed changes reflect their needs and experiences. I encourage everyone to take a look at what’s being suggested and share their views during the exhibition period.”
Residents, business, and visitors can now have their say on the proposed changes and provide feedback through Council’s engagement website, Let’s Chat Shellharbour.
Once the public exhibition period has ended, Council will review community feedback and finalise the proposed AFZs and APAs by either adopting the zones or reporting back to Council.
The AFZs and APAs will then be implemented and will apply until the next review in four years’ time, or sooner if required, Council said.
