Published
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 09:00
- Brisbane's clubs and pubs will be forced to close at 3 AM under the Labor government's new legislation.
Queensland pubs and clubs will be subject to new lockouts and early closures under new legislation proposed by the state government.
Similarly to Sydney's controversial and licensing restrictions introduced in early 2014, the recently elected Queensland Labor government will be looking to enforce venue lockouts (meaning patrons will not be able to enter or re-enter after 1 AM) and 3 AM closing times across the state in an effort to curb alcohol-fuelled violence. Other measures include "no shots after midnight" and the ability for police to breathalyse patrons and punish venues and licensees not complying with RSA laws.
The legislation is at odds with the former Liberal government's "Safe Night Out Strategy" which, rather than opting for lockouts and early closures, focused on stronger penalties, targeted policing and prevention through education. The lockout approach has been widely criticised by the entertainment industry due to the negative financial and cultural impacts the restrictions have, an effect which has been seen in Sydney with 42 bars, clubs and small business reportedly closing in Kings Cross, one of the city's key clubbing districts, over the past 12 months.
No dates have been set for the laws' implementation, with Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath explaining that consultation with relevant bodies—licensees, police, researchers, doctors etc.—will be taking place over the coming months.