Alcohol penalties and offences: residents

Changes to the NT Liquor Act

On 1 October 2019, liquor laws changed in the Northern Territory (NT).

The information below is currently under review.

For more up to date information, contact Licensing NT.

This page has information about penalties you can be given for alcohol offences under the law.

Penalties for consuming alcohol in a dry area without a special event permit including all of the following:

  • confiscation or tip-out of alcohol by police
  • on-the-spot fines and further monetary penalties
  • a possible ban from drinking.

Go to the Department of Treasury and Finance website to find out more about penalty units and fines.

Penalties if you are over 18 years old

Offence Penalty
Breach of a private restricted area 20 penalty units and seizure of alcohol
Breach of a public restricted area20 penalty units and seizure of alcohol
Breach of a general restricted area100 penalty units or six months jail
Breach of a special restricted area 100 penalty units or six months jail 
Breach of a regulated place5 penalty units and seizure of alcohol
Breach of alcohol protected area
  • bring, possess, control or consume alcohol in area: 100 penalty units or six months jail
  • supply, possess or transport alcohol for third party in area: 100 penalty units or six months jail
  • if quantity of pure alcohol is greater than 1,350ml and involves supply/intended supply to third person: 680 penalty units or 18 months jail

Last updated: 09 June 2015

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