How to prevent intoxication in licensed venues
This page outlines the responsibilities of licensees to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. By following the intoxication and prevention of intoxication guidelines, licensees can help minimise alcohol-related harm and promote a safer community.
People visiting a licensed venue to share a few drinks is generally a positive experience for both the venue and customers. However, excessive drinking can negatively impact someone’s health and behaviour. If not handled responsibly, it can put the customers and your venue at risk.
The guidelines set out legal responsibilities that must be complied with to ensure that a licensee is not breaching the law.
Preventing intoxication in licensed venues
Licensees have important legal obligations to ensure alcohol is served responsibly to help minimise alcohol-related harm.
Supporting responsible alcohol consumption and preventing intoxication lowers the risk of alcohol related harm and helps to promote a safe venue for customers, staff and the surrounding neighbourhood.
Under the liquor laws, licensees cannot sell or supply alcohol to intoxicated persons.
As a licensee, you must ensure to:
- serve alcohol responsibly to help minimise alcohol-related harm
- prevent intoxication from occurring on their premises
- provide a safe venue for patrons and staff.
Or else you can face:
- fines
- higher licence fees
- suspension or cancellation of a licence.
Licensees can follow the Prevention of intoxication on licensed premises guidelines to help make sure they are meeting their legal responsibilities and keeping their venue safe
Intoxication guidelines
Licensees can use the intoxication guidelines to help decide if someone is showing signs of being intoxicated.
