In light of the current pandemic, the Australian government announced an economic stimulus package of $17.6 billion to support Australian jobs, households and businesses.
According to John Wilson, traditional owner of remote Indigenous community, Peppimenarti, the release of coronavirus stimulus payments has seen a surge in alcohol consumption amongst the community.
Since 2007, the community has banned takeaway alcohol from liquor outlets align with the Northern Territory Intervention in 2007.
Council reports reveal members of the public to be smuggling alcohol and spending up to $500 per bottle.
Social clubs within the community are attempting to lessen the demand for alcohol by selling limited bottles to locals.
As a result of the surge in alcohol consumption, the community of Peppimenarti have seen a surge in violence and anti-social behaviour.
The unintended damage from the economic stimulus package is a call to the government to assist remote communities struggling during this pandemic.