By Andrew Starke
A NSW Liberals and Nationals Government will introduce a ‘three strikes and you're out’ policy for the State’s licensed venues in what it says are tough new measures to crack down on alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.
NSW opposition leader Barry O'Farrell and the community was rightly sick and tired of alcohol-related problems, including violence, and he would have no issue with holding publicans and hoteliers responsible.
“I make no apologies for getting tough on licensees who repeatedly refuse to abide by the law," he said.
“My message is clear: change your ways or change your job. This new tough measure will apply to all licensed venues whether pubs, clubs, nightclubs, bottle-shops or restaurants.”
The oppositions policy includes the trialing of ‘sober up’ centres, additional move-on powers for police, introduction of a drunk and disorderly offence and retention of existing measures including plastic cups, timeout periods, shot limits and lockouts.
"Problem venues will continue to be named and existing conditions will continue to apply,” said O’Farrell.
"Our three strikes policy is about responding to community concerns about alcohol-related problems with a tough effective plan that offers certainty to the public that licensed venues which repeatedly breach the law will face severe penalties, including closure of the business.”
The ‘strike system’ will be administered by an independent committee headed by a Magistrate and comprising NSW Police, BOSCAR, and the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing.
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