A new push will be launched from this week for earlier legal ‘last drinks’ and lockouts for licensed venues –like the conditions in Newcastle CBD, Sydney CBD and Kings Cross – to be rolled out across the state.
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The NSW/ACT Alcohol Policy Alliance wants restrictions placed on pubs, clubs and bottle shops statewide as part of a suite of measures aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm.
The coalition is made up of 47 member organisations, including high profile groups such as the NSW Australian Medical Association (AMA), NSW Police Association, Cancer Council and Thomas Kelly Foundation – a group named after the Southern Highlands victim of a fatal coward punch on the streets of Sydney.
Moss Vale Hotel licensee Tom Porter said there would be minimal impact on the Southern Highlands.
“Through the good work of licensees, everything is in order. The liquor accord has worked well with police,” Mr Porter said.
It will release a wide-ranging policy document today ahead of the March state election, which calls for the next NSW government to reduce alcohol-related health problems and grog-fuelled violence.
The move has drawn support from the health and law enforcement communities, but raised concern from business bodies that have seen the restrictions in play for a decade in Newcastle.
Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education CEO Michael Thorn said the response to alcohol-related harm was a taxpayer cost that ran into billions of dollars each year.
“Our political leaders have an opportunity to demonstrate strong and resolute leadership and tilt the balance back into the favour of the people of NSW and not the alcohol industry.”
