Liquor reform to benefit tourism operators

Accredited tourism businesses will be able to provide complimentary alcohol without a liquor licence, following changes to the state’s liquor regulations announced today. 

Under the approved reforms of the Liquor Control Regulations 1989, which come into effect tomorrow, businesses that have completed the Australian Tourism Accreditation program, run by the Tourism Council of WA, will be able to provide complimentary alcohol without a liquor licence.

Accredited tour, accommodation, attraction and retail businesses can now offer hospitality experiences including providing self-serve beer and wine to guests at a barbecue dinner, in a room or safari tent, or creating a dining experience with alcohol while touring an attraction.

The changes were announced today by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia at the 2017 WA Regional Tourism Conference in Albany, co-hosted by Tourism Council WA.

"The new regulations reflect Western Australia's move toward a responsible drinking culture,” Mr Papalia said.

"This is one amendment in a suite of changes to come that will bring WA's liquor laws in line with current policy and allow tourists to responsibly enjoy liquor.

"Tourism is a key financial driver in WA; it plays a significant role in diversifying the state's economy and creating new jobs."

Tourism operators will need the permission of land owners or managers to apply the exemption on their property and either the person in charge of the business, leading the tour or pouring alcohol must have completed a Responsible Service of Alcohol course.

Permission has already been granted for the exemption to apply in WA’s National Parks for Accredited Tourism Businesses.

Other conditions include that the supply of the alcohol must be a secondary extra to a tour - not provided at an additional cost.

Tourism Council WA chief executive Evan Hall said the changes would reduce regulatory costs for businesses, improve tourism product and allow tourism operators to better meet the expectations of visitors.

“With the removal of previous restrictions, tour operators will be able to offer great food and wine experiences featuring local produce without the costs and process of obtaining a liquor licence,” he said.

“Accredited Tourism Businesses are genuine tourism businesses that have completed an assessment process to ensure they are operating to industry best practice and meet their legal obligations.”

An agreement will be held between the Director of Liquor Licensing and the Tourism Council of WA to ensure that tour providers continue to operate to a high standard, with the responsible service of alcohol.