Western Australia’s liquor law reforms have passed Parliament and are expected to reduce red tape and boost the state’s liquor, tourism and hospitality sectors.
As part of the revamp, alcohol can be served by hotels, taverns, small bars and producers with or without a meal on Good Friday and Christmas Day. Trading hours on those public holidays and Anzac Day will be extended by up to four hours, running from 10am to midnight.
The Liquor Control Act 1988 will also allow digital ID checks. Photos or screenshots of the digital ID, however, will not be accepted.
The reforms will scrap extended trading permit renewals, reducing paperwork and costs for business owners. Small bars will also gain room to grow, with capacity limits set to rise from 120 to 150 patrons.
In addition, producers of spirits will be allowed to make a wider range of products, including ready-to-drink beverages like hard seltzers.
The new laws will make the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) permanent in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Goldfields, Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction as part of alcohol harm reduction measures. Penalties for illegal alcohol sales and transport will be strengthened.
Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia said the reforms reflect the government’s commitment to making it easier to do business in WA.
“We’re backing growth in tourism, hospitality and the night-time economy with a modern liquor licensing system that works for both businesses and patrons,” Papalia said.
- This story was originally published on Inside Small Business.
