Breaking the Territory's grog problem?

It's controversial, even harsh. But supporters say the N.T. government's mandatory rehabilitation law could could break the back of the endemic grog problem in the Northern Territory.

Just outside Katherine, lies a place where lives are changed.

The Venndale Rehabilitation Centre is a safe haven for those who need help fighting their addictions.

The consumption of pure alcohol per person in the Northern Territory is almost 50% higher than the national average

Some people come by choice - but now others won't have that option.

Under new Northern Territory laws anyone taken into police protective custody three times in eight weeks for alcohol problems could face mandatory detention here.

Hannah Hollis reports from Venndale.