The legal implications of NSW liquor licensing laws

A Liquor Licence can mean an effective boost of revenue for owners of cafes or restaurants in New South Wales.

The state’s Liquor Licencing legislation controls and regulates all sale and supply of alcoholic beverages for businesses and events serving the general public. Any business in New South Wales that intends to supply alcohol as part of its business operations must apply to have a Liquor Licence NSW attached to that premises or event.

There is a list of different types of licences to apply for, as evident on the Liquor & Gaming NSW website. The main categories are: restaurant, hotel or general bar, small bar, package Liquor Licence producer/wholesaler on premises, club, and limited licences for functions and one-off or recurring events.

There is additionally a new category for micro-breweries or small distilleries, which is driven by a government initiative to support small businesses making craft beers, wines, ciders or spirits for immediate sale rather than wholesale. As such, it should be clear that different business operations will benefit or be hindered by different types of Liquor Licences attached to their business.

Thus, if you are a businessowner looking at all these different legislations, it can be useful to have an experienced Lawyer assisting throughout the process. Having the right type of licence can greatly improve the profitability of your business, but an error or lack of foresight may impose unwanted limitations on your operations.

One common application we handle often has been for cafes who specialise in takeaway coffee and small meals, wanting to convert into a small bar. We have helped many of these businesses dramatically improve their profitability by gaining a Small Bar Licence, which allows them to have up to 120 people on their premises (according to DA). This licence allows for patrons to be served an alcoholic beverage without a meal or other product, and allows for extended licence hours authorisation.

Consulting with a Lawyer who is intimately familiar with the process of liquor licence application is important for businesses to understand the ins and outs of the licencing agreement, so that they choose the package which best suits their business goals. Colin Daley Quinn’s very own Matthew Williams has extensive experience working with businesses in the hospitality, retail, registered clubs and small community clubs sectors, helping them to achieve a Liquor Licence which suits them.

As the owner of a small business himself, Matthew can guide you through the application process and provide ongoing assistance with any additional queries regarding licencing which may arise. Whether upgrading an existing business or gaining ownership of a business which already has a Liquor Licence, Matthew is happy to help with all agreements and regulations including on site at your premises. Contact Matthew at ph 02 8556 0130 for any additional queries about liquor licencing.

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Colin Daley Quinn Joined: July 31st, 2019