The New South Wales Government has implemented a series of reforms through the 24 Hour Economy Legislation Amendment (Vibrancy Reforms) Act 2023, with several key changes coming into effect today. These reforms aim to enhance regulatory efficiency and community engagement across various aspects of licensed venue operations and alcohol management.
Disturbance Complaints Reform: Liquor & Gaming NSW (L&GNSW) now serves as the primary regulator for noise and disturbance complaints related to licensed venues. The reforms introduce a streamlined approach to sound management, bolstering statutory frameworks to ensure the validity and reasonableness of all complaints. While licensed premises are exempt from noise pollution laws under certain conditions, NSW Police or L&GNSW may issue improvement notices to address noise issues promptly.
Liquor Licence Application Reforms: The application process for liquor licences has been streamlined to modernize systems, reduce costs, and facilitate quicker approvals for licensed businesses. The reforms eliminate the 30-day pre-lodgement consultation period, adopting a single community consultation model via the L&GNSW noticeboard. Applications now require a Statement of Risks and Potential Effects (SoRPE) to assess impacts, replacing the Community Impact Statement for relevant applications.
Live Music and Arts Events: Enhanced provisions support hotels hosting live music and cultural events, emphasizing their positive social impact. Criteria include regular scheduling of events, specific event timings, and restrictions on gaming machine operation during extended trading periods, subject to licensed premises development consent.
Limited Takeaway Authorisation: Small bars and licensed restaurants can now apply for authorisations allowing limited liquor sales for takeaway and home delivery. Guidelines specify allowable quantities per transaction, aimed at supporting businesses during and post-COVID-19 recovery with waived application fees until December 2024.
Re-entry into Industry for Former Licensees: Former licensees with expired endorsements within the last three years can renew their Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) or Licensee endorsement through Licensee Training only, simplifying renewal processes.
Signage Requirements for Minors in Bottle Shops: New requirements mandate signage in areas selling takeaway liquor, ensuring minors are accompanied by a responsible adult, promoting responsible alcohol sales.
Recognition of Interstate Digital Driver Licences: Digital driver licences from other Australian states are now accepted as valid age verification in NSW, aligning with digital trends and improving efficiency in age verification processes.
These reforms represent a significant step towards modernising alcohol regulations in NSW, fostering a vibrant and responsible 24-hour economy while addressing community and industry needs effectively.
Related Topics:
