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Executive summary

It is with pleasure that I present the Liquor Commission Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2023.

The Liquor Commission (the Commission) has experienced significant changes to its membership during the reporting period.

Former Chairperson, Kate Pedersen, resigned on 31 December 2022. I thank Kate for her commitment to the operations of the Commission, which was invaluable in the shaping and administration of the liquor licensing regulatory scheme in Western Australia.

Kirsty Stynes resigned on 6 February 2023 to take up a role with the Commonwealth Department of Public Prosecutions, and Alya Barnes has decided not to seek reappointment when her term expires in September 2023. I thank them both for their work and dedication to the Commission over the years and wish them all the best for their future endeavours.

I also wish to congratulate Nicholas van Hattem on his appointment as Deputy Chairperson and Paul Shanahan, Elanor Rowe, and Pamela Hass on their reappointment to the Commission. The Commission also welcomed two new members, Mary Brown and Jared Brotherston, who were appointed in May 2023. On behalf of the Commission, I look forward to working with them both.

The volume of material before the Commission and time required to draft judgments continues to increase. This places significant demands on the time of commissioners, many of whom are already employed full-time in other positions, and causes delays in the publication of decisions.

I take this opportunity to thank the State Administrative Tribunal for the continued use of their facilities to conduct hearings. Their ability, flexibility, and willingness to cater to our needs is greatly appreciated.

Finally, I wish to thank the staff of the Department of Local Government, Sport, and Cultural Industries for the provision of executive services. Their dedication, professionalism and commitment are vital to the ongoing effective operations of the Commission.

Ms Emma Power
Chairperson