The NSW Government has released its latest half-yearly violent venues list, which has once again seen the number of venues listed drop.
Liquor & Gaming NSW Deputy Secretary Paul Newson said the results show an improvement from the previous list and confirm that levels of alcohol-related violence continue to trend down.
“There are now two venues in the most restrictive level one category compared to three six months ago, while the number of level two venues has fallen from 11 to 10,” Newson said.
“It’s pleasing that several previously named venues have improved their safety record and have either been downgraded from level one to level two, or removed from the list completely.
“This shows the violent venues scheme is having a positive impact in encouraging venues to reduce levels of alcohol-related violence.”
The positive news is also reflected in the number of overall incidents reported, which has fallen by 86 per cent since the scheme began in 2008, from 1270 to 183.
Newson added: “These results show that the vast majority of venues across NSW do the right thing and provide a safe environment for people to enjoy a night out.
“Venues on the list are closely monitored and incur substantial risk-based loadings to their annual licence fees to offset the additional regulatory oversight.”
Newson said Liquor & Gaming NSW operates a range of regulatory schemes that encourage best practice and reduce risks of alcohol-related violence.
AHA NSW Director of Liquor and Policing John Green praised the work of licensees in reducing the number of incidents in venues across the state.
“Assault levels on licensed premises are at the lowest levels since BOCSAR records began,” he told TheShout.
“They are down 46 per cent across NSW since 2008 – this is due to the hard work of licensees working together with local police and their communities to achieve this positive outcome.”
The violent venues list reflects the number of violent incidents at venues over a 12-month period. Venues with 12 or more incidents make the list and are subject to strict conditions and increased monitoring by Liquor & Gaming NSW.
Level 1 venues:
- The Argyle, Sydney – 25 incidents
- The Coast Hotel, Coffs Harbour – 19
Level 2 venues:
- Ivy, Sydney – 17 incidents
- The Sunken Monkey Hotel, Erina – 17
- Sydney Junction Hotel, Hamilton – 16
- Amaroo Hotel, Dubbo – 15
- Narellan Hotel, Narellan – 13
- King Street Hotel, Newcastle West – 13
- Beach Road Hotel, Bondi Beach – 12
- Camden Hotel, Camden – 12
- Sugar Lounge (NSW) Pty Ltd – 12
- Fusion, Cronulla – 12
The latest list has seen four venues in Scruffy Murphy’s, Sydney, Penrith Rugby League Club, Penrith, Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee and Home Nightclub in Sydney removed after they each reported fewer than 12 incidents.