By Triana O'Keefe, editor Australian Hotelier
Ealier this year, TheShout reported on the Queensland State Government’s plans to impose lockouts and service restrictions to the Brisbane CBD.
Today, Our Nightlife Queensland (ONQ) secretary Nick Braban accused the Palaszczuk Government of shutting them out of the discussions.
Braban said without proper consultation, the Government was risking an industry worth $500 million to the state’s economy.
“We accept that the Government was elected with a mandate for action in relation to this, but we still disagree that a change in trading hours is going to have any real effect at the end of the night,” Braban said.
“What’s most disappointing is that we have not had the attorney-general get back to us.”
However, a spokesperson for Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath said it was Braban refusing to be involved in the conversations.
“We are continuing to consult with a broad range of industry and community stakeholders; for example, an April 28 industry forum the attorney-general attended with senior members from the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation and representatives from hotels and clubs,” he said.
“Mr Braban was invited but did not attend.”
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