- Extended trading hours for WA’s licensed hospitality venues during Rugby World Cup
- Venues can apply to stay open longer between 8 September and 28 October
- Game-changer for licensees who are encouraged to apply as soon as possible
Western Australian pubs and bars can apply for longer trading hours to show matches in the upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup in a major win for fans of the sport.
The Director of Liquor Licensing will allow venues to apply for extended hours to cover the tournament’s schedule in France. The matches air late at night or early in the morning, here in WA between 8 September and 28 October 2023.
Approved licensed venues will be permitted to trade until 30 minutes after the conclusion of the match, provided they are showing a live broadcast during the extended trading period.
The policy has been modified to simplify the application process, with fees calculated based on the number of people expected at the licensed venue across the tournament schedule. Application fees have been capped at $1,245.50 for the event regardless of the number of patrons present.
Australia’s first match in the 2023 Rugby World Cup is against Georgia, on Sunday 10 September at midnight WST.
Licensees should lodge their applications as soon as possible. For information on how to apply, visit www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/racing-gaming-and-liquor
Comments attributed to Racing and Gaming Minister Reece Whitby:
“This is a win for Western Australian rugby fans. WA has a rich mix of cultures, and there wouldn’t be a single team in this year’s World Cup that doesn’t have a large supporter base across our great State.
“This is a game-changer for licensed venues. Many of these matches will be played late at night or in the early hours of the morning. This allows flexibility and gives sports fans the opportunity to come together and enjoy the hospitality.
“Supporting your national side is always better with family and friends. This licence allows fans to gather at venues, away from quiet suburban streets, to cheer and not impact their neighbours.
“Tourists have also scored. There’s nothing better than finding somewhere in a foreign city to tune in and watch your team.”
