By Andy Young
While the levels of incidents continue to trend down over the long-term, the number of venues listed on the NSW Government’s Violent Venues list has increased from eight to 15.
The only venue of the most recent list to have the most restrictive Level One category, is Sydney’s Ivy nightclub, with the other 14 venues being at Level Two. Overall 10 venues have been added to the list and three have been removed.
Liquor & Gaming NSW Deputy Secretary Paul Newson said it is common for numbers of listed venues to fluctuate from round to round.
“This latest list follows the scheme’s best ever results six months ago when for the first time there were no venues in level one,” Newson said.
“Listed venues will be closely monitored but the results show the level of violent incidents remains on a longer-term downward trend.
“The violent venues scheme has made a significant contribution to this reduction and helped ensure the community can enjoy safer nights out, with an 82 per cent fall in the number of violent incidents since first established in 2008.
“NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) statistics show the Government’s tough liquor law reforms and robust regulatory oversight targeting irresponsible venues and practices have delivered a 7.6 per cent annual fall in alcohol-related non-domestic assaults across NSW over the past five years.
“Liquor & Gaming NSW administers a range of regulatory schemes that encourage best practice and reduce risks of alcohol-related violence. We continue to engage with industry and the community to improve safety in and around licensed venues.
“The vast majority of venues across NSW do the right thing and provide a safe environment for people to enjoy a night out.”
The 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.