The recently approved revisions to liquor laws in Western Australia are set to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hindrances, and inject vitality into the region’s liquor, tourism, and hospitality sectors.
The legislation overhaul permits licensed establishments such as hotels, taverns, small bars, and alcohol manufacturers to offer alcoholic beverages with or without an accompanying meal on notable public holidays such as Good Friday and Christmas Day. Furthermore, the trading hours on these holidays, as well as on Anzac Day, will see an extension of up to four hours, permitting operation from 10 am to midnight.
In alignment with modern technological trends, the Liquor Control Act 1988 will also integrate digital ID checks into its enforcement mechanism. However, the law stipulates that digital evidence such as photographs or screenshots of IDs will not be deemed acceptable.
As part of the drive to slash red tape, the new laws will eliminate the need to renew extended trading permits, thus reducing paperwork and related costs for business operators. Small bars stand to benefit from these changes, as the legislation raises their patron capacity limit from 120 to 150.
The reforms also broaden the scope for spirit producers, enabling them to produce a wider array of products, including ready-to-consume beverages like hard seltzers. To address potential alcohol-related issues, the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) will become a permanent measure in Kimberley, Pilbara, Goldfields, Carnarvon, and Gascoyne Junction. The law will also amplify penalties for unauthorized alcohol sales and distribution.
According to Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia, these reforms echo the government’s dedication to facilitating business operations in Western Australia. He underscored the legislation’s dual benefit for businesses and customers, stating, “We’re backing growth in tourism, hospitality and the night-time economy with a modern liquor licensing system that works for both businesses and patrons.”
What are the key changes in Western Australia’s new liquor law reforms?
The primary changes include extended trading hours on public holidays, introduction of digital ID checks, eradication of extended trading permit renewals, increase in customer capacity at small bars, and expansion of the product range for spirit producers.
How will the reforms affect small bars?
The reforms will ease administrative burdens for small bars by dispensing with the need for extended trading permit renewals. They will also allow for an increase in customer capacity from 120 to 150.
What measures will be taken to address potential alcohol-related issues?
The reforms will make the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) a permanent feature in certain areas, and also strengthen penalties for illegal alcohol sales and distribution.
