The NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) wants industry to put their best foot forward when making applications.
ILGA Chairperson Caroline Lamb said the Authority is aware that many hospitality venues in NSW are an essential part of community life.
“We are determined to support that,” Ms Lamb said.
“The role clubs and pubs play is especially important in regional areas, and we have seen plenty of examples in the city too, but applications submitted to the Authority often don’t give us the full picture.
“Applications drafted by lawyers may tell us how compliant you are but not how your business ‘contributes to and does not detract from, the amenity of community life’, to quote s3(2)(c) of the Liquor Act 2007.
“For example, tell us about who is really in charge: the board, the general manager or the licensee? What do they do to minimise harm from alcohol or gaming at your venue or in your community?
“You may have a wonderful-sounding Gaming Plan of Management but tell us about the last time a vulnerable customer was in your venue and what you did about it.
“Maybe your venue is known in the community for providing shelter for locals displaced during natural disasters. We love to hear these stories.
“If you need more pokies as part of an exciting development plan, we always appreciate information that helps us understand how approval of your application will help build community resources, like safe play spaces.
“We also like to hear how hospitality venues are building resilience, like offering activities to address the epidemic of loneliness in the community.
“Traditionally clubs and pubs have been key enablers of sport and active recreation; we think that’s great and we’d love to see more of it.”
Some examples of questions where the answers might help the Authority to understand you better when determining your application, are:
- How does your application fit with your long-term goals?
- How does your venue support your community?
- Tell us about your customers. Do you know your regulars? What do they like about your venue?
- What are your biggest risks and how do you manage them?
- What does your venue offer patrons in addition to liquor and gaming?
- Do you offer other entertainment, like live music?