The state government’s liquor licensing reforms will include detailed regulations designed to stop restaurants trading as de facto bars.
The state government’s liquor licensing reforms will include detailed regulations designed to stop restaurants trading as de facto bars.
The state government’s liquor licensing reforms will include detailed regulations designed to stop restaurants trading as de facto bars.
The reform package also includes a new liquor licence category for ‘small bars’, which will be able to accommodate a maximum of 120 people.
Legislation to implement the reforms was introduced to state parliament this week by Racing and Gaming Minister Mark McGowan.
“The government has continued its commitment to reform the state’s liquor laws,” Mr McGowan said.
He said the changes, which have been vigorously opposed by the hotel industry, would provide greater choice and more opportunities for consumers, tourists and small business.
The reforms will allow metropolitan liquor stores to trade on Sundays; currently only bottle shops attached to hotels can open on Sundays.
This change will not apply in country areas because of concern that the viability of country pubs could be threatened.
The legislation will also replace the needs test for new liquor licences with a broader public interest test.
One of the most contentious proposals is to allow restaurants to sell alcoholic drinks without a meal.
Mr McGowan said he was confident restaurants would not become de facto bars.
They will have to maintain their normal seating pattern, will only be allowed to serve drinks to people seated at tables, must maintain a fully staffed kitchen and can only serve drinks (without a meal) during hotel trading hours.
The licensing authority will be able to withdraw a restaurant’s liquor licence if these conditions are breached, without any right of review.
Mr McGowan said the government was keen to support people wanting to establish innovative bars under the ‘small bar’ licence.
He believes small bars will make Perth more vibrant and exciting and will offer people greater choice.
The figure of 120 people was set after studies of interstate experience.
Small bars will not be able to sell packaged liquor.