The area, within Hopkins, French and Irving Streets, are “alcohol restricted” zones.
The council introduced the ban in an effort to curb behavioural problems associated with drinking alcohol.
Acting Inspector Michael Grainger, head of police in the Maribyrnong Police District said: “It is important that we ensure our community feels safe within this environment.”
“We are committed to achieving that outcome through a combination of education and enforcement of these laws,” he said.
Maribyrnong mayor Michael Clarke said more than 100 signs were erected in the area to let people know that drinking alcohol was not allowed.
“People know what the laws are, and if they ignore them, then both local laws officers and police officers can issue warnings or, if necessary, take enforcement action,” Cr Clarke said.
Officers are given discretion about how they handle a situation in the alcohol restriction area:
THEY can ask the person/s to move out of the alcohol restriction area as long as they’re not causing a disturbance.
THEY can ask the person holding the alcohol to seal or empty the container.
THEY can seize the container themselves and dispose of it.
THEY can also issue infringement notices for $200, which if unpaid, will end up as a case in the Magistrates Court.
The Local Law also gives officers the power to act if they encounter any problematic behaviour caused by alcohol consumption in all public areas in the City of Maribyrnong.
