The ‘Building on the Liquor Reform: White Paper’ released by ACT Attorney-General Simon Corbell, is meant to “prioritise community safety while increasing the vibrancy of the ACT’s nightlife precincts,” according to the Government. But LSA has conducted its own review of the Paper and believes a number will significantly impact on liquor retailers and the industry.
In particular, LSA has highlighted the:
- Proposed annual increase of 25 per cent to liquor licence fees;
- Proposed discount of 5 per cent on licence fees for ‘compliant operators’;
- Proposed ‘controlled compliance operations’ (i.e. entrapment for sale of alcohol to minors);
- Proposed power for the Minister to declare an area a ‘risk zone’, affecting all licence types.
LSA is currently writing a submission to the Justice Community Safety Directorate and is inviting members to get in touch to discuss the above issues. Contact details are available on its website.
Trade can also submit feedback directly to the review. Submissions will be accepted until 13 May via email (ACTLiquorReview@act.gov.au) or writing:
Building on Liquor Reform: White Paper
Legislation, Policy and Programs
Justice and Community Safety Directorate
GPO Box 158
Canberra, ACT 2601
