Liquor & Gaming NSW inspectors will be active over the Australia Day weekend to check venues are complying with liquor laws and COVID public health orders.
Liquor & Gaming NSW Director of Compliance, Dimitri Argeres, said inspectors will be out targeting issues such as underage drinking and ensuring venues are complying with responsible service of alcohol requirements.
“Inspectors will be out across the state and will take a zero tolerance approach to any licensed venues or staff found selling alcohol to minors or intoxicated persons,” Mr Argeres said.
“With the mercury tipped to rise above 30 degrees in many places across NSW, venues need to ensure they are doing all they can to minimise alcohol-related harm.”
This year’s Australia Day celebrations will be different to previous ones with the public and venues needing to be aware of and complying with the latest COVID public health orders.
“Although people will be out having a good time, it is important they remember to check into venues and to listen to the directions of licensees and their staff,” Mr Argeres said.
“Licensees need to ensure they have safety plans in place and are adhering to them, and have adequate digital record keeping practices.”
With the likelihood more people may be celebrating at home this year compared to previous years, it is also critical that bottle shops and other takeaway venues are complying with the law.
“Bottle shops should be checking the ID of all customers who appear under the age of 25 to prevent sales to minors and be on the lookout for adults supplying takeaway alcohol to minors,” Mr Argeres said.
