Grog crackdown: Katherine fast becoming a town like Alice

Katherine is fast becoming a town like Alice Springs and it has forced police to crack down on grog.

Police officers put a man into the back of a paddy wagon.

Katherine is fast becoming a town like Alice Springs and it has forced police to do a crackdown on grog.

In the three months between February and April there was a staggering 345 per cent increase in the number of Banned Drinkers Orders (BDO) for problem drinkers in the town.

For the month of April, there were 332 Banned Drinking Orders made, more than double the 141 BDOs issued in April.

The problem has become so bad Katherine police have stepped up their proactive measures in order to drive down crime and anti-social behaviour in the town.

Police said alcohol remained a primary catalyst for crime and anti-social behaviour across the region.

In addition to the increase in BDOs being issued, since March 2025, 280 SupportLink referrals have been made by Katherine police.

Katherine scenes, Stuart Highway through Katherine. Main Street.

Support Link delivers targeted referral and diversion services to people who require social services assistance.

The referrals are made to address issues such as domestic and family violence, drug and alcohol dependence, drug and alcohol diversions and homelessness.

Commander Terry Zhang said police had seen a noticeable spike in the demand for their help due to a sudden surge of people into the Katherine region.

“In response to this, we have shifted to proactively tackling the drivers of crime and anti-social behaviour through support services and alcohol restrictions,” he said.

Police have launched a grog crackdown in Katherine Picture: Glenn Campbell

Commander Zhang said in addition to the crackdown Katherine would be bolstered by a further 15 new constables from mid-June to further enhance the targeted operations.

“Police have also continued to work closely with other organisations in Katherine,” he said.

“This includes working with the local council on early morning patrols focused on rough sleepers, and a joint operation with Public Housing Officers targeting problem tenancies.

“Police would like to thank the Katherine Community for their ongoing support and reiterate our commitment to keeping the Katherine community safe.”

Originally published as Grog crackdown: Katherine fast becoming a town like Alice