NSW Cracks Down on 'Problem' Venues

By Amelia Ball


Almost 50 NSW pubs, clubs and nightclubs have been hit with radical new licensing conditions from today (December 1), following a crackdown from the State Government. 


Premier Rees has launched a package of reforms that aim to curb anti-social drinking and alcohol-related violence by targeting known alcohol violence hotspots, as identified by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOSCAR). 


The Police Commissioner provided the NSW Premier with a list of ‘problem venues’ based on information supplied by BOSCAR, with a total of 48 premises under the spotlight throughout the state.

Changes to hit these identified venues include mandatory 2:00am lockouts, a cease on the service of alcohol 30 minutes prior to closing and plastic or polycarbonate beer cups to be used after midnight, at which time a no-shot rule and drink purchase limits will be imposed. 


Also among the more significant changes is a ten-minute freeze on alcohol sales to be enforced every hour after midnight and a ban on doubles, shots and RTDs with an ABV greater than 5 per cent. 

Premier Rees said the new measures are not targeted at drinkers who do the right things or venues currently providing a safe drinking environment. 


“We’ll also review security arrangements in each of these venues and work with them to provide extra security, drink marshals, security at nearby taxi ranks and additional transport options,” he said.


The NSW Government will provide targeted and high visibility policing in these so-called hotspots and undertake a targeted advertising campaign in high-risk venues. 


The NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing (OLGR) is working with the industry to implement these new reform.

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[Mon 01/12/2008 04:16:28]