WESTERN Australia this month heralds in the start of the introduction of revolutionary new liquor licensing laws that will see the state shake off its “Dullsville” tag, according to state treasurer Eric Ripper.
The new laws are expected to be a boon for the state’s foodservice and hospitality industry giving operators a great deal more flexibility than they’ve previously had.
Amongst other things, the laws allow restaurants to serve liquor without a meal and will create new small bar licenses.
Ripper was quoted in the local media as saying the reforms will be a major leap forward for Perth as well as other parts of the booming state.
“These reforms will see Perth shake off the ‘Dullsville’ tag that has plagued the city and add vibrancy and energy to smaller towns and tourist destinations all around the state,” Ripper said.
He also urged local government to embrace the new laws in the attitude they take in doing their part in approving applications under the new laws.
“Let’s not make any mistakes, liquor reform is popular,” Ripper was quoted as saying by the ABC. “It’s supported by the people of Western Australia, and local governments, I think, need to to respond to that public opinion. As the year progresses we’re going to see more and more impact as a result of this liquor reform package and that’s great news for Western Australians.”
“It’s great news I think also for our economic and social progress. We need to make ourselves more attractive to visitors and future potential residents and we can do that with this liquor reform package.”
The first of the reforms came into effect on May 7 when patrons were allowed for the first time to take home their open but unconsumed bottles of wine from restaurants, hotels, and taverns provided they had bought it with a meal.
It seems ironic that WA—considered by some in the eastern states to be a tad behind when it comes to dining sophistication should be leaping ahead of Australia’s great international city—Sydney—and New South Wales where the hospitality industry has been fighting for many years for liquor law reform along the same lines as some that the WA Government is embracing so enthusiastically. Perhaps the leaders of the NSW Government should watch closely as the new WA laws take effect and take note of the flow on that’s expected to occur for the increasingly dynamic hospitality industry there.