Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
THE state’s liquor and gambling regulator will open two offices in regional Victoria in an effort to crack down on country pubs and clubs not obeying their liquor licences.
The state government announced $11.3 million for the plan, which will see up to six inspectors based in regional Victoria from April next year to work with local councils, police and community health services.
They will provide more frequent inspections of intoxicated people, minors on premises and the responsible service of gaming and alcohol.
Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation compliance director Stephen Berriman said it would allow inspectors to get a greater idea of the risks association with venues in country Victoria.
“Up until this stage our staff was hubbed in Melbourne and deployed from Melbourne, and we didn’t have that degree of information and intelligence as to what was occurring in country Victoria,” he said.
“In regional Victoria, the effects of alcohol can be more dramatic.
“Where there is an issue, we are anxious to identify it early and to work on it with our partners and resolve it before dramatic events occur.”
Victorian gaming and liquor regulation minister Marlene Kairouz met with Bendigo mayor Margaret O’Rourke, Bendigo police and the liquor regulator on Thursday to discuss rolling out the plan.
A location for the inspectors has yet to be determined, but they will be recruited from regional communities from October.
They will then travel around the state introducing themselves to the owners of licensed premises to identify issues.
Ms Kairouz said the safety of patrons at venues in Bendigo had improved in recent years, but more work could be done.
“I had a really good meeting with the mayor, police and local member, we’re hearing really really positive things, the 2am lockout laws are really positive,” she said.
“The conversation I had with local police is that they’re wanting these hubs to be set up in areas that are at most risk, that can also service the Bendigo region.
“There are problems in regional areas, but by working closely with the VCGLR, the local community and venues, hopefully this extra money will help stamp out any issues.”