The NSW liquor industry is being given the opportunity to have its say on liquor licensing reform in the state, but the Government’s consultation process closes next month.
The NSW Government committed to liquor licence reform in the 24-hour Economy Strategy for Greater Sydney (‘the Strategy’) released in September 2020. The Strategy is a comprehensive plan to enhance the vibrancy, diversity, inclusiveness, and safety of Sydney’s 24-hour economy and support COVID-19 recovery.
Liquor and Gaming NSW is leading the process and has a comprehensive discussion paper for review, with consultation open until 6 December 2022.
Head to the Liquor Licensing Reform website to have your say.
The NSW 24-Hour Commissioner, Michael Rodrigues, said: “I often hear from the sector that capital can be tied up for extended periods as businesses navigate planning and licensing approval processes. This is the opportunity for industry to work with NSW Government on a major overhaul.
“I know it’s a busy time of year but I would encourage sector participants to work collaboratively on submissions and provide feedback either directly through the website or through their peak bodies.
“The NSW Government remains committed to a vibrant 24-hour economy. As we recover post-pandemic, we are getting on at pace with our colleagues at Liquor and Gaming to deliver regulatory reform where needed, and to simplify approval processes.”
Through Action 15 of the Strategy, the Government committed to:
• continue to streamline approval processes for licensing and planning applications, develop a plan for integrated processes wherever possible, and reduce overall approval timeframes and duplication.
• explore the introduction of a new risk-based licensing model to reduce the number of liquor licence types and classes and minimise complexity and red tape.
Head to the Liquor Licensing Reform website to have your say.
