NSW Office of Liquor Gaming and racing to be replaced
The NSW Office of Liquor Gaming and Racing will be replaced with a new regulator, Liquor and Gaming NSW.
NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Justice and Police Troy Grant said the change will result in extra compliance officers, a new merit-based appeal of licensing decisions and overall will allow for greater compliance and enforcement after the NSW state government introduced its lockout laws.
“Liquor laws in NSW have never been tougher, and we need a regulator that is equipped to effectively enforce these laws,” Mr Grant said.
“The new Liquor and Gaming NSW will be given a 20 per cent boost in compliance capacity and have a surge force of up to 100 inspectors when required,” he stated.
Liquor and Gaming NSW will be responsible for routine liquor and gaming compliance, disciplinary and licensing functions.
The Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA) will focus on high-risk licence applications like nightclubs, casinos and bottleshops.
The public will be able to appeal Liquor and Gaming NSW decisions to ILGA and ILGA decisions to the NSW Civil and Administrative tribunal. A new community access team will also provide information and education to the community.
“Previously a decision made by ILGA was final, unless you had the financial capacity for a Supreme Court appeal, making it almost impossible for the community’s voice to be properly heard,” Mr Grant said.
“Also under the new arrangements, the ILGA board will be directed to meet more frequently allowing them to make decisions much quicker, improving certainty for the community,” he said.
Other articles of interest
NSW Government to introduce lockouts for pubs and bars, earlier closing times for bottle shops
NSW Government responds to Liquor Act Review recommendations
