Dramatic drop in violence at NSW pubs

The number of licensed premises on the NSW Government’s violent venues list has halved from 12 to six in the past six months, with no venues in the most restrictive level one category.

Liquor & Gaming NSW Deputy Secretary Paul Newson said these latest results are the best in several years and part of a long-term downward trend in the level of violent incidents.

“Our state’s hotels, clubs and bars recognise that running a violent venue is not just bad for patrons; it’s also bad for business,” Newson said.

“For just the second time since the scheme began in 2008, there are no venues in the highest level one category, while the number of level two venues has fallen from 10 to six.

They are: Ivy, Sydney (pictured main); The Coast Hotel, Coffs Harbour; Belmore Hotel, Maitland; Ivanhoe Hotel, Manly; Penrith Rugby League Club; and The Argyle Sydney, The Rocks.

“These results indicate our state’s licensed venues are now safer than they’ve ever been.

“It’s great news that people can enjoy night outs with far lower risk of alcohol-related violence.

“The NSW Government has taken strong action and worked closely with industry to achieve these highly encouraging results.”

Newson said the violent venues and three strikes schemes have motivated industry to do better and maintained downward pressure on alcohol-related violence.

Data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research shows alcohol-related non-domestic assaults have been dropping at around 7%.

“This continuing decline and the removal of nine venues from the latest list show this longer-term trend is continuing,” Newson said.

“We have more work to do and some venues need to take action to curb excessive consumption and alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour in and around their premises.”

The list reflects the number of violent incidents at venues over a 12-month period. Venues with 12 or more incidents make the list, with those recording 18 or more incidents classed as level one. Venues on the list face strict conditions and increased monitoring by Liquor & Gaming NSW.

Venues removed from the list are: The Sunken Monkey Hotel, Erina; Sydney Junction Hotel, Hamilton; Amaroo Hotel, Dubbo; Narellan Hotel, Narellan; King Street Hotel, Newcastle West; Beach Road Hotel, Bondi Beach; Camden Hotel, Camden; Sugar Lounge, Manly; and Fusion, Cronulla.