The Queensland Government has dropped the introduction of a 1am lockout for bars and nightclubs in 3am Safe Night Precincts, after findings from Deakin University’s Institute for Social Science Research report concluded the introduction of lockouts were “not likely to significantly change current trends (except for pre-drinking).”

Instead, QLD Government will work to introduce mandatory ID scanners in Safe Night Precincts by mid-year and enforce banning orders on repeat offenders.

Also on the agenda is the tightening of alcohol service, after Deakin University’s research found that a “lack of notable change in trends since the introduction of the Policy also suggests the provision of extended trading permits (allowing the sale of alcohol until 5am) has compromised the impact of the Policy.”

As a result, the State Cabinet will halve the number of one-off permits for extended service hours in Safe Night Precincts, and impose restrictions on their use.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said, “It’s disappointing the systematic use of these permits has clouded the impact of our new laws; some venues have been using the extended 5am trading as business-as-usual.

“We won’t allow that to continue, and will make this reduced number of permits available only for genuinely special events.”

 

You may also be interested in First Venues Granted Extension Under New Lockout Law Trial

 

Share the content