Understanding local government responses to alcohol-related harm.

While particular policies were widespread, participating LGs varied greatly in activity in, and responses to, reducing alcohol-related harm. LGs reported varied influences on their responses. LGs recognised the long-term health harms of alcohol in their health planning documents, however, most prioritised interventions targeting short-term amenity and safety harms. Changes to Victorian planning and liquor licensing legislation to give additional powers to LGs and providing pre-developed alcohol programs with dedicated funding should be considered.