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This policy sets out the security measures which may be imposed by the Director of Liquor Licensing (DLL), on higher risk premises and events as a condition of a liquor licence or permit.
Whether a licence or event is considered high risk will depend on factors such as the:
When the DLL considers it to be in the public interest for ensuring public order and safety, additional security requirements will be imposed on a liquor licence or permit, these being:
These requirements will generally apply to nightclubs, venues which trade after 1am, and large events where more than 1000 people are expected. They might also be imposed on other licences or permits if the DLL considers it to be appropriate in the circumstances.
The DLL will consider imposing the crowd controller condition on licences or permits with a higher risk, unless the applicant can demonstrate that the licence or permit has appropriate management strategies to minimise the risk of alcohol related harm. In each case, the required security arrangements will be considered in the context of how to minimise harm, given the level of risk the premises or event represents. The DLL may decide that sufficient security is provided by a combination of responsible service of alcohol marshals, licensed crowd controllers or managers approved by the DLL under section 102B of the LC Act.
However, in general the expectation is that nightclubs and venues trading after 1am will have a ratio of two crowd controllers for the first 100 patrons, and another crowd controller for each additional 100 patrons (or part thereof). Depending on the nature and risk of a proposed large one-off event, a ratio of one crowd controller to 150 patrons may be considered for events that do not seek to trade beyond 1am. Further submissions may be required when lodging an application.
In making a decision, the DLL will consider the licensee’s history of compliance with the Liquor Control Act 1988.
Crowd controllers must:
Licensees must have a communication strategy enabling crowd controllers to communicate with each other and with management throughout the duration of trading, or the event. This is to ensure effective communications between these parties, allowing the coordination of an appropriate response if an incident occurs.
Closed circuit television video (CCTV) systems deter unlawful behaviour and aid management and law enforcement agencies to maintain public safety. The standard CCTV condition on licences is placed on permanent licences that trade beyond 1am. The CCTV system is to be operational and recording from 8pm (or from when the premises opens, if this is after 8pm), until one hour after trading ends.
The DLL may also require a CCTV system to record for the duration of an event, if it is considered high risk and more than 1000 people are expected in the licensed area. If required, this condition will be added to the licence on it being granted.
The CCTV surveillance system must:
The licensee and approved manager are responsible for the management and storage of the recordings and the effectiveness of the system. Details of any incident must be recorded in the incident register for the licensed premises. Recordings must be made available for viewing and/or exporting by the police, or any person authorised by the DLL, within 24 hours. The recordings must be kept for 28 days, unless the DLL specifies a different period. Licensees should make sure they get a system with enough backup capability to meet these timeframes.
The only people who are authorised to access the recordings are the licensee, approved manager, the police, or any person authorised by the DLL. Licensees should make themselves familiar with the Surveillance Devices Act 1998, particularly the penalties for unlawful use or disclosure of information obtained by surveillance devices.
For advice on the choice of CCTV surveillance systems, appropriate installation, and for details of licensed installers and technicians, licensees can contact:
Further information on licence requirements is available, or contact 61 8 6551 4888.
The policy on this subject is general information and is not professional advice or a legal opinion. The information is provided on the understanding that any person reading it must take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy.
Version 1.0Issued 29 August 2024 In effect from 29 August 2024
Policy reviewed and updated to clarify application and streamline documentation.