The Queensland Election is only weeks away and although liquor licensing and alcohol haven’t featured prominently so far, a few months ago the State Opposition were reportedly considering winding back trading hours across the board. Other than a few media reports, there has been no official policy declared by the LNP. Shadow Attorney General Jarrod Bleijie is reported to have said in a statement “earlier club closing times were on the table if the LNP won government”.
The Bligh Government position on trading hours doesn’t appear to have changed since 2010, when it rejected the Law, Justice and Safety Committee’s recommendation of a reduction in trading hours, following its Enquiry Into Alcohol-Related Violence. Instead, the Government introduced the Drink Safe Precincts in Fortitude Valley, Townsville and Surfers Paradise on a 2 year trial basis.
As part of the assessment of the effectiveness of this measure, the Government is now seeking feedback from anyone who has experienced the DSPs.
To have your say visit www.qld.gov.au/drinksafe. You will be presented with a choice of four surveys, dependent on your experience of the precints.
Patron survey – if you visit pubs or clubs
Licensee survey – if you own a pub or club
Business and worker survey – all other business owners & workers, including employees on licensed premises, owners of unlicensed businesses and persons providing support services
Resident survey – if you live near the pubs and clubs
You may complete more than one survey if appropriate. For instance if you live in the area and visit pubs or clubs.
