The Victorian Government has announced changes to how businesses apply for liquor licences and permits and also make it easier to establish outdoor dining areas to help serve more customers.
As part of the Economic Growth Statement, the requirement to apply for a planning permit to serve alcohol will be abolished – saving venue owners time and money. The Government said its Economic Growth Statement is about making it simpler and easier to do business in Victoria.
Victoria’s Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said: “Everyone is a winner with these changes – businesses save money and spend less time waiting to open, councils won’t get unnecessary permit applications and Victorians will get an even better food and drink scene.”
“These changes are about making it easier for our world-class pubs, cafes, bars and restaurants to do what they do best – serve great quality meals and drinks to more people.”
Currently, Victorian hospitality businesses wanting to serve alcohol for consumption require a liquor licence from the Victorian Liquor Commission and a planning permit from their local council. The government is removing this double-up, helping save time and money, enabling businesses to open up to six months earlier and saving them up to $7000.
Protections around amenity, noise and operating hours will remain in place, while zoning and planning permit requirements will continue to determine where restaurants and pubs can open their doors.
Premier Jacinta Allan said: “These changes send a clear message: Victoria is open for business.”
“Victoria’s already the food and culture capital of Australia. We want to see more bars, restaurants and pubs open their doors, and we’re going to help them do it sooner.”
During the pandemic the need for a planning permit for outdoor dining on public land was removed, this will now be made permanent so more Victorians can enjoy dining outdoors at pubs, cafes, bars and restaurants without businesses facing unnecessary red tape.
Minister for Small Business Natalie Suleyman said: “Small business is the backbone of local economies and this will be a game changer – saving time and money for hardworking business owners.”
The Victorian Government said this is the first in a series of announcements that it will make to boost economic growth in the state, The Shout will keep you updated with any announcement that will help the hospitality industry.