The NSW Government is looking at making further nighttime economy reforms following the repeal of Sydney’s lockout laws, including demerit points for venues that breach liquor laws.
It said the aim is to support nightlife recovery after COVID-19 restrictions are eased, and “create a vibrant and safe 24-hour economy with risk-based liquor laws that support business”.
Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello said: “We want pubs, bars and hotels to hit the ground running on the other side, but we are mindful of how rules such as social distancing may need to be accommodated.”
Pictured above: Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello sharing a beer with The Duke of Clarence owner Mikey Enright in January.
The draft Liquor Amendment (24-hour Economy) Bill 2020 proposes creating a demerit point system for venues that replaces the current “three strikes” system. There would be escalating sanctions for multiple breaches of liquor laws, with venues facing a seven-day suspension if they accrue four demerit points over a three-year period.
This could be extended to two weeks if six or more points are incurred over three years, with the Liquor & Gaming having the power to permanently disqualify the licence-holder or, for registered clubs, the secretary.
The Government said the new system aims to incentivise well run venues, minimise violence and reduce serious liquor law breaches.
It said it also wants to support live music and entertainment by removing outdated entertainment conditions on liquor licences, and waiving application fees to change or remove other existing live music conditions.
This will see venues no longer forced to comply with limits on the genres of music and types of instruments that can be played, or the number of musicians or acts who can perform.
The Government said it also intends to improve the approvals process for small bar licences and allow small bars to offer more family-friendly and diverse services to customers, to support small business and encourage use of this “lower-risk licence”.
Children will be permitted to accompany responsible adults into small bars up until midnight.
It said it intends to remove red tape, reduce overlap and improve how the industry is regulated.
The draft Bill also enhances same day alcohol delivery regulation. This includes strengthening controls with age verification, to reduce the risk of supply to under 18-year-olds
The legislation will be put to Parliament later this year.
It has invited people to have their say on the second stage of the 24-hour economy liquor law reforms.
Submit your feedback by Sunday, June 14, 2020 by visiting the NSW Customer Service website, which provides an online form, email or post options.
