Support alcohol law change and help our communities thrive

HPF has signed an open letter that calls on Members of Parliament to vote in support of proposed law changes that will reduce the harm caused by alcohol in our communities.

The Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Harm Minimisation) Amendment Bill was put forward by MP Chlöe Swarbrick and seeks to give communities a greater say on where, when and how alcohol is sold. This will be through removing the special appeals process that alcohol retailers are using to water down or delay the implementation of council alcohol policies. 

For more information and to sign the Open Letter click HERE. You can also sign a petition as an individual.

The Bill also seeks to protect children and vulnerable groups from the known harms of alcohol advertising exposure, by ending alcohol sponsorship of broadcast sport.

MPs will have the opportunity later this year for an evidence-based debate on the Bill.

Dr Nicki Jackson, Executive Director of Alcohol Healthwatch said: "We’ve created an online platform where New Zealanders can come together to show their support for stronger alcohol laws. We know that there is a rising appetite for urgent change."

Selah Hart, CEO of Hāpai te Hauora, said New Zealanders were well-aware that our alcohol laws had failed to reduce the widespread and unequal harms from alcohol and wanted to see leadership and immediate action from our politicians.  

“The campaign is about turning that support into action - collectively calling on every MP to support a proposed law change that will finally start to turn the tide on alcohol harm. We are thrilled that Te Pāti Māori are already in support, given the long-standing inequities in alcohol harm experienced by Māori."

Dr Jackson added that the Bill would benefit every New Zealander, as alcohol harm affected us all.

"The best news is that the communities that experience the most alcohol harm, will benefit the most. Finally, we have an opportunity for our country to show international leadership by implementing stronger alcohol laws that will support our communities to thrive."

Join us in supporting this campaign, and help to promote a safe and healthy environment for all!