Abstract
Proposed amendments to the law governing the sale of alcohol will increase alcohol availability and reduce community influence over local alcohol decisions, leading to greater harm in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ).
Alcohol is NZ’s most harmful drug, with wide-ranging impacts on individuals, whānau and society, and disproportionate harm experienced by Māori. The current legislative framework already contributes to these harms.
If passed, the recently introduced Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Improving Alcohol Regulation) Amendment Bill would unpick already weak alcohol legislation, making alcohol even more available in our communities. It would reduce public voice and free expression of community views.
The Bill has been welcomed by the alcohol industry, raising questions about who the Bill serves, and who will benefit from the proposed changes to the legislation.
Consultation on the Bill is underway, with submissions open until Thursday 14 May 2026.