Pepper spray permits and $880 bad behaviour fines announced to tackle anti-social drunkeness

A fine almost five times more than the current penalty will be introduced in a bid to keep people safe on nights out, while bottle shop security will be allowed to carry upgraded kit.

Bottle shop security guards can from today apply to carry pepper spray on duty under a public safety blitz for the hospitality industry.

The Territory government will also announce on Monday that unruly pub-goers could be fined $880 for refusing to leave a licenced venue – nearly five times the current penalty.

Hospitality NT chief executive Alex Bruce told the NT News the government had signalled its support for the sought-after penalty hikes, which will be debated in the legislative assembly when it resumes on May 14.

Police Minister Brent Potter has announced harsher penalties for drunken behaviour. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

The current fine for refusing to leave a venue or bottle shop is $187, but last year’s Liquor Act review recommended harsher penalties in what Mr Bruce said was a bid to “keep our staff and patrons safe”.

The review did not suggest equipping bottle shop guards with OC spray, but Police Minister Brent Potter said it was a “common sense measure to improve community safety”.

“Reducing crime is the Territory Labor government’s top priority and we will work tirelessly to improve community safety right across the NT,” Mr Potter told the NT News.

The NT Police Commissioner will sign off on all permits, and guards will need to complete an accredited course and hold first aid qualifications.

Mr Potter said the measures were part of the government’s $570 million investment in policing and public safety, which also involves recruiting an extra 200 police officers over the next four years.

Industry lobby Hospitality NT today also launched a campaign to raise awareness about the forthcoming penalty hike under the slogan “Save Your Mate a $880 Hangover”.

“You may not be in the state of mind to understand you should leave a venue, but it means a lot more if your mates tell you,” Mr Bruce said.

“If you’re refused service, some people can get quite aggressive. It’s not about stopping our customers from having a good time, all we’re asking is for people to show respect to our staff and security guards.”

Mr Potter is expected to front the press on Monday with more details about the changes.