The New South Wales (NSW) Government has responded to the technical challenges businesses face in meeting the online age verification requirements for same-day alcohol deliveries. The government has extended temporary provisions until 31 May 2024, allowing delivery providers to continue utilising alternative options to verify a customer’s age. These measures aim to ensure a seamless and compliant process while maintaining the safety and integrity of the alcohol delivery service. Further details are as follows:-
Ensuring Compliance and Addressing Challenges
Since 1 June 2022, same-day delivery providers in NSW have been obligated to verify (at the point of sale) the age of customers who order alcohol online. Two temporary alternative age verification options applied to address any technical difficulties in businesses complying. Temporary Option 1 uses artificial intelligence-based authentication of evidence of age documents, whereas, temporary Option 2 requires purchasers to make a statement confirming their intention to provide an age verification document upon delivery. As some businesses continue to face technical issues the availability of these options has been extended until 31 May 2024. This extension allows businesses to implement compliant solutions and enhance their systems.
Provisionally Accepted Age Verification Providers
The eligibility for same-day delivery providers to use identity service providers currently undergoing Trusted Digital Identity Framework (TDIF) accreditation has also been extended. These provisionally accepted providers will have an additional 12 months, until 31 May 2024, to complete the accreditation process. This extension allows businesses to utilise reliable age verification services while working towards full accreditation under the TDIF.
Monitoring and Future Review
The NSW Liquor & Gaming will continue with the assessment of the alternative age verification methods so as to analyse the effectiveness of these options and address any remaining challenges. Before 1 June 2024, a review will be conducted to evaluate their impact and determine whether further adjustments or enhancements are required.
Conclusion
For further information on same day delivery age verification requirements can be found on the ILGA website here (https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/resources/same-day-delivery-age-verification-requirements).