Independent Member for Alfred Cove Dr Janet Woollard is calling for an urgent review of liquor licensing legislation to prevent people from supplying alcohol to young people under 18 without parental consent.

“Parents have told me they are appalled that their children are attending parties in private homes where alcohol is being served to their children by other adults without their consent,” said Dr Woollard.

“Existing legislation in Western Australia and some other States and Territories does not protect young people from alcohol.

Dr Woollard said while legislation throughout Australia bans the supply of alcohol to those under 18 in licensed premises, only New South Wales, Queensland, and Tasmania have legislation which prevents supply in private or domestic premises.

“Queensland and Tasmania have gone further to prevent the reckless supply of alcohol to minors without parental consent or knowledge,” said Dr Woollard.

“Queensland is currently in the process of strengthening their legislation to give children greater protection.

“The Victorian Liberal Nationals Coalition Government is planning to introduce legislation to protect children by banning adults from supplying alcohol to minors in a private place, unless parental consent is given.”

Dr Woollard said studies have repeatedly found that early consumption of alcohol could harm the developing brain of young people. It is understood the development of one’s brain continues right up to the mid-20s.

“A Deakin University study has found that children who obtain alcohol from people other than their parents are more likely to binge drink,” said Dr Woollard.

“This is further proof that laws regulating the supply of liquor to minors need to be strengthened.

“I will be lobbying the WA State Government for amendments to the liquor licensing legislation to require parental consent and knowledge before alcohol can be served to children under the age of 18 in a private place.

“It is important we offer as much protection as possible from the harms of alcohol to our young people,” said Dr Woollard.