This Act, consisting of 100 sections divided into 13 Parts and completed by two Schedules, concerns the regulation and use of kava in Northern Territory. Kava is the name given by Pacific islanders to Piper methysticum, a shrub belonging to the pepper family Piperaceae, and the psychoactive beverage made from it. The roots and stumps of kava are prepared by pounding, chewing or grinding them and soaking them in cold water. This traditional drink still plays a key role in certain ceremonies and culture. The Act aims at establishing mechanisms and procedures for prohibiting and regulating the supply, possession and consumption of kava and for controlling the price of kava; reducing the health, social and economic problems associated with consumption of kava, and at encouraging the involvement of communities in the regulation of the supply, possession and consumption of kava, and the implementation of harm minimisation principles and other responsible practices relating to the supply, possession and consumption of kava, in their community areas.
Australia · 1998-05-11