John Macmillan Park

Name Information: John Macmillan (1936-) grew up in Victoria Park and represented the Victoria Park Ward.

Central East Victoria Park location with a large, grassed area, toilets, basketball court (half) and playground.

Located outside Leisurelife Centre and Victoria Park Carlisle Bowling Club.

Please note, from 1 November 2024, John Macmillan Park is an Alcohol-Free Zone

The John Macmillan Precinct Alcohol-Free Zone encompasses the total green space of the John Macmillan Park, the playground, and all footpaths and areas outside and inside of the Library, LeisureLife and Vic Park Community Centre. This extends to the back of these Town facilities and the carparks which surround them.

Alcohol-Free Zone FAQ

What is an Alcohol-Free Zone?

An alcohol-free zone is a designated area where the consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. This restriction aims to promote safety, health and wellbeing within the space. Alcohol-free zones are commonly established in settings such as parks, schools, workplaces and public events to foster a respectful and responsible environment, reduce alcohol-related incidents and ensure a positive experience for all individuals present.

How do Alcohol-Free Zones support the community?

Preventing the escalation of anti-social behaviour, thereby enhancing public safety;

Promoting and normalising alcohol-free environments;

Raising awareness about the issues associated with alcohol consumption;

Delaying alcohol use among young people by modelling alcohol-free or safe drinking behaviours;

Offering a supportive environment for individuals who abstain from alcohol or are trying to reduce their intake; and

Increased perceptions of safety.

What is the John Macmillan Precinct?

What is Public Drinking?

Public Drinking is defined as the act of consuming alcoholic beverages in public spaces, such as streets, parks, beaches or other outdoor areas, where the consumption of alcohol may or may not be regulated by local laws. Public drinking in Western Australia, by a person of any age, is a criminal offence. The practice can raise concerns related to public safety, noise, disorderly conduct and community wellbeing.

Why are we making the John Macmillan Precinct an Alcohol-Free Zone?

The measure aims to amplify and support the message that public drinking is not appropriate for the space, which has been experiencing disproportionate levels of alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour for some time. It also reinforces that public drinking is a criminal offence.

Can events or initiatives in the precinct serve alcohol?

The Alcohol-Free Zone establishes a no-exceptions ban for the whole community which removes any perception of discrimination and extends from individuals using the precinct to organised events and gatherings. No Town-run or sponsored events, and no community events or organised gatherings in the precinct may serve alcohol for the consumption on site; this includes tastings. The Alcohol-Free Zone additionally extends to events inside the Library and LeisureLife facilities, as well as community-operated facilities in the precinct.

What do I do if I notice someone or a group of individuals consuming alcohol in the John Macmillan Precinct?

Public drinking is a criminal offence. If you notice public consumption of alcohol in the John Macmillan Precinct, notify the police by calling 131 444. If it is an emergency call 000.

Is it the Town’s responsibility to enforce the Alcohol-Free Zone?

No. The Town’s role is to support and abide by the Alcohol-Free Zone by not allowing for the consumption of alcohol at events, initiatives and gatherings in the precinct.

To enforce non-drinking behaviour by the public, staff must contact Police by calling 131 444, as public drinking is a criminal offence. If it is an emergency call 000.

What else is the Town doing to make the John Macmillan Precinct a safer space for everyone?

The Town is working towards the reduction of antisocial behaviour and improvement of safety through its collective impact approach with relevant stakeholders. These efforts include: