Multiple ID scans for patrons visiting Safe Night Precincts will soon be a thing of the past thanks to new laws passed by the Palaszczuk Government in State Parliament today.
Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath said that before Christmas, venues can implement a re-entry scheme so that patrons in Safe Night Precincts will no longer have to be scanned each time they re-enter licensed premises.
The reforms, which include a number of changes to the Liquor Act 2002, are the result of widespread consultation and have earned strong industry support.
“We’ve worked closely with stakeholders to deliver sensible, workable reforms to give licensees more flexibility in ID scanning on lower-risk nights,” Mrs D’Ath said.
“These changes strike the right balance between tackling alcohol-fuelled violence and reducing unnecessary burdens on licensees.
“An independent evaluation of our Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence Policy found ID scanners make our precincts safer.
“It also found that further refinements could address unintended consequences being experienced by licensees, particularly on quieter weeknights.
“Currently, licensees of regulated premises must scan the ID of each patron at the point of entry from 10pm, on any night the premises is authorised to supply liquor after 12 midnight.
“This has meant that licensees must start scanning from 10pm regardless of whether they decide to close early due to low patron numbers.
“The amended ID scanner scheme will give licensees the flexibility they’re looking for, without compromising patron safety.”
Under the revised scheme licensees won’t have to operate ID scanners Monday to Thursday if they close by 1am.
If they remain open after 1am Monday to Thursday, ID scanners must operate from 10pm until close.
These changes will not apply on Friday, Saturday and Sunday or the eve of a public holiday, given the higher patronage and additional risks associated with trading on those nights.
The Government has consulted extensively with relevant stakeholders and there is significant support for these amendments.
This approach reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to listening to and engaging with stakeholders to keep our nightlife thriving and ensure the safety of patrons and the wider community.
