Proposed liquor laws changes get thumbs up

Rockingham bar owners have welcomed proposed changes to liquor licensing laws which will place more responsibility for intoxication on patrons.

WA police last week called for an overhaul of the current system, which holds venues responsible for inebriated clients.

While licensees must still monitor clientele, it will become illegal to be drunk in pubs, clubs and restaurants if new laws are passed.

Rustico Tapas Bar owner Vanessa Phillipson said while she believed state liquor licensing laws were already strong enough to prevent drunkenness, she welcomed the idea customers should be held more directly responsible.

“We are quite lucky at Rustico because we are all about food, and our staff performs table service which means they are face to face with each customer and can quickly spot if someone has had too many,” she explained.

“We also put water on every table to help minimise the likelihood of that happening.”

Ms Phillipson said laws and regulations relating to drunkenness were already strong enough to give licensees and their staff the confidence to refuse service to those under the influence.

“But I guess the one good thing to come out of the recommendations is to see the onus placed on customers to ensure they drink responsibly,” she said.

R Bar owner Siobhan Gavin agreed, saying it was only fair drinkers were accountable for their own actions.

“I do like that the police have suggested people should take more responsibility,” she said.

“We have very minimal issues with people who have drunk too much, but I can see the point in something like that working for bigger venues.

“I’m pretty happy with the way the licensing board does things.

“We make sure we gauge the way someone walks up to the bar and have a little chat with them to make sure they haven’t had too much.”

Police also recommended reducing opening hours and banning the use of energy drinks to mix with alcohol.