The State Government will introduce the most significant reforms to Western Australia’s liquor laws in a decade to encourage a new wave of activity through WA’s vibrant hospitality scene.
Following the reforms in 2006 that gave rise to Perth’s small bars and a new sophisticated drinking culture, the Liquor Control Amendment Bill 2018 will be presented to State Parliament next week.
The Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Western Australia will be given equal consideration to that of the Chief Health Officer and Commissioner of Police when assessing liquor licensing applications.
Under the changes, Tourism WA will be able to put forward a submission regarding the tourism benefits of any application – creating more balance in the consideration of licences.
In addition, a new category will be added to the public interest assessment to allow venues’ tourism, community and cultural benefits to be considered as part of a licence application.
Among the raft of proposed amendments, licensed restaurants with a capacity of 120 people or less will be able to serve alcohol without a meal. Currently, restaurant licensees must lodge a separate application for a permit to allow this authority.
The change reflects a sensible balance between harm minimisation and transforming the drinking culture in Perth by permitting venues to cater for the after-work drinks crowd and giving greater choice to visitors.
Additional common-sense amendments include allowing patrons to take home their unfinished wine bottle when out to dinner at a small bar or tavern.