More Liquor Licensing officers announced as new liquor laws introduced: Fraser

The State Government will appoint 10 new Liquor Licensing officers in key Queensland metropolitan and regional areas as part of wide-ranging reforms to the Liquor Act.

Treasurer Andrew Fraser said the new officers would be located on the Gold Coast and Brisbane and in Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba and Mackay as part of the government’s commitment to minimise harm related to the misuse of alcohol.

Mr Fraser said the new positions, at a cost of $1.1 million, would be funded by revenue generated from the introduction of annual fees to ensure licensed premises play their part in contributing to the costs of regulating the liquor industry and minimising liquor-related harm.

But, Mr Fraser stressed, the new licensing regime was not about raising revenue.

“It’s estimated that a maximum of $22 million will be generated by these fees in the first year of operation - $15.5 million of that will go toward the operating costs of Liquor Licensing during the same period,” Mr Fraser said.

“Fees will also be directed toward the Bligh Government’s Indigenous Alcohol Strategy, with a package of $14.1 million over four years to councils to divest their canteen licenses.

“When I announced the new fee structure earlier this year, I gave a commitment that a component of the fees would be used to employ extra Liquor Licensing officers.

“Today, the government makes good on that commitment.

“This is about ensuring the industry contributes to the costs of alcohol related harm and crime – those costs should not be a burden taxpayers have to shoulder.”

Mr Fraser said the first stage of a new, hard-hitting advertising campaign aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm was due to be rolled out next month.

“The campaign will be aimed at encouraging patrons of licensed premises to take responsibility for their actions and also to reinforce to adults the very real and very serious ramifications of secondary supply of alcohol to minors.”

Mr Fraser said the staffing increases announced today compliment the successful establishment of the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing, which commenced operation as an integrated Unit of Treasury on 18 July.

“We expect the integration to result in a one-stop shop – a better service for Queensland communities which reduces red tape and places harm minimisation and industry integrity at the top of its agenda.’’

Media Contact Chris Taylor 0419 710 874