More NSW Government vibrancy reforms commence

These include:

1. A new club functions on other premises authorisation

Club licence holders are now able to apply for an authorisation to hold functions away from their premises subject to criteria being met.

The Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) must be satisfied that the grant of an off-site function would benefit club members and their guests.

2. A new application pathway for changing/removing certain licence conditions that impact late-night trading

A new free streamlined application pathway for licensees to have an existing liquor licence condition imposed by the Secretary or the ILGA, revoked or varied that impacts night-time business activity. 

Conditions include:

• restrictions on the number of drinks that may be purchased in a single transaction
• restrictions on the type of drinks that may be sold or supplied on the premises
• mandates for the presence of security personnel
• imposition of a lockout or curfew on patron entry.

Applications can be made to Liquor & Gaming NSW (L&GNSW). Where L&GNSW considers it necessary, alternative conditions may be proposed to mitigate risks associated with removing an existing condition. 

Any licensees that want to apply to change or revoke any of these conditions can lodge a free application.

3. Removal of restrictions on glassware

Licence conditions that prohibit drinks being served in glass containers, are being reviewed and may be removed if appropriate.

What this means:

• L&GNSW is proactively reviewing affected licences and no application is required
• as part of this review, conditions may be removed where L&GNSW is satisfied that their removal would not result in an increased risk of violence or alcohol-related harm (after consultation with the NSW Police Force)
• L&GNSW may contact licensees and request information or submissions as part of the assessment process
• venues will be notified of the outcome, regardless of the decision
• venues may still choose to use plastic drinkware if they prefer.

For information on the upcoming changes and how to apply for these new applications. Visit the Key changes under the Vibrancy Reforms webpage.