The NSW OLGR has backed up its new regulatory reshuffle, issuing a warning that changes including Liquor Act reforms, targeted compliance and enforcement, and the contentious risk-based licensing fees.
Beginning 1 March, the changes introduced through the Liquor Legislation Amendment (Statutory Review) Act 2014 will commence, offering new flexibility for brewers and distillers and a streamlined liquor licence transfer process, but perhaps most importantly, the requirement for regulators to publish high-impact licensing and regulatory decisions.
The regulatory body published its revised ‘Compliance & Enforcement Policy’ in late 2014, warning of plans to target “serious, persistent or sustained wrongdoing with escalating enforcement action”.
It will soon issue new guidelines to help prevent intoxication, courtesy of the Secretary of NSW Trade & Investment, detailing steps licensees should take “to reduce the risk of intoxication at their venue” and other RSA obligations.
The OLGR states that both releases result from detailed industry analysis, assisted by key stakeholders including community, government and industry.
Next month it will undertake assessments to determine licence pricing for all venues. Any changes to a venue’s circumstance must be received and approved by 15 March.
Mid-April the licence fee notifications will be issued, and licences will be suspended if fees not paid by 27 June. If not paid by 24 July, the licence will be cancelled.
Licensees are encourage to check their details are up to date, to ensure they receive their fee notice promptly.
To learn more, visit the OLGR website.
