The freeze on late-night liquor licences in inner Melbourne will be extended for two more years, Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson announced yesterday.
Introduced in May 2008, the freeze means no new applications for bar, pub and nightclub licences to operate after 1am in the municipalities of Melbourne (including Docklands), Port Phillip, Stonnington and Yarra will be granted by the Director of Liquor Licensing before 31 December 2011.
Membership clubs and most restaurants and cafes are not affected by the freeze.
“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to make Victoriaís licensed venues safer and more enjoyable and reduce the negative impact the irresponsible service of alcohol has on the broader community,” Mr Robinson said
“We know many of the violent incidents in our entertainment precincts occur after 1am on weekends. The freeze will keep growth in late night venues in check so our other long-term strategies to improve the safety and amenity of our entertainment precincts can take effect.”