The QLD Labor government has secured the support of North Queensland MPs Shane Knuth and Robbie Katter of the Katter’s Australian Party to pass legislation restricting after-hour drinks like shots and doubles.
“The evidence is clear. Reduced trading hours leads to reduced violence, and that’s what this bill delivers,” state Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.
“Doing nothing is not an option. I’ve spoken to countless doctors, nurses, paramedics who’ve been bashed, I’ve spoken to the police who are out there in the early hours of the morning basically in war zone situations,, parents, and grandparents who have urged me to take action to curb alcohol-fueled violence. I want Queenslanders and visitors to our state to go out and enjoy our state’s vibrant nightlife, but I also want them to return home safely to their families and loved ones.”
The legislation was inspired by Sydney’s example of 1.30am lockouts and 3am last drinks in certain spots around the Sydney CBD.
Casinos and adult entertainment venues, however, will be allowed to trade as late as 5am, with gaming venues given approval to trade for two hours after they are forced to stop serving alcohol.
Queenslanders will not be able to purchase alcohol after 3am from July on. Last drinks will be called state-wide from 2am, while venues in designated nightclub precincts will be able to serve alcoholic drinks until 3am. A 1am lockout will also be imposed on venues on 1 February 2017.
State Labor government is also campaigning for another wide-ranging measure which might see “drug offenders” banned from Safe Night Precincts.
Meanwhile, Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews took to social media to rule out such measures, saying the existing model is enough to curb violence.
