Two discussion papers have been released by the Minister for Consumer Affairs proposing new measures to reduce alcohol-fuelled violence and anti-social behaviour.
‘A Safer Night Out’ looks at ways to tackle alcohol related violence and other anti-social behaviour in licensed premises, while a Review of the Code of Practice for licensees, aims to give licensees, the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner, and the Commissioner of Police the necessary authority to stamp out alcohol-related violence.
The Minister, Gail Gago said the paper followed last year’s announcement of a review of the Liquor Licensing Act 1997.
Crackdown on violence planned
“Unfortunately there are still people indulging in binge-drinking and alcohol-fuelled, anti-social behaviour which can ruin what should be a fun night out,” Ms Gago said.
She said the problem had grown with the introduction of 24-hour licensed trading.
Ms Gago said people ought to be able to feel safe in entertainment areas and on the streets without the threat of violence or abuse.
“We should be able to have a vibrant and exciting international city that is also free from alcohol fuelled anti-social behaviour,” she said, “and these changes are designed to strike that balance.”
Ms Gago said the proposed changes outlined in ‘A Safer Night Out’ included strengthening the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner’s powers to take action against venues where anti-social problems were occurring.
She said this could include imposing conditions on a licence, such as increasing security guards or cameras, or enforcing a lock-out at a venue if there was anti-social behaviour or violence taking place on the street outside.
Other changes outlined include new powers for the Commissioner of Police to close licensed premises in emergency situations and the introduction of a mandatory three hour closing of licensed pubs and clubs between 4.00am and 7.00am or between 5.00am and 8.00am.
Proposed changes in the draft Code of Practice include allowing discretionary action to be taken at late trading premises where anti-social behaviour was occurring.
Ms Gago said these included improved security such as CCTV, queue management, restricting liquor sales, and prohibiting breakable glasses and containers.
Submissions on the discussion papers close on 3 September and for more information, go to www.olgc.sa.gov.au
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