Queensland Venues Lash Out

The government announced drastic measures in March to tackle alcohol-fueled violence in the state’s entertainment precincts. It modified some aspects following a lobbying campaign by venue operators warning of job losses of up to 5,000, and after three key independent senators demanded changes before granting their support. In the latest proposals, the government opted for 2 a.m. closures for all venues across the state, with sales of spirits banned after midnight.

But those in entertainment precincts including the Gold Coast and Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley can apply for special licensing to stay open until 3 a.m. as long as they agree to a 1 a.m. lockout after which no new patrons can enter. They can also apply for A$50,000 ($35,270) grants to increase security cameras and security at taxi ranks or courtesy buses. Surfers Paradise Alliance CEO Mike Winlaw and Nightlife Queensland secretary Nick Braban both warned of the adverse impact on the tourism industry, and displeasure at the government’s lack of consultation with the nightclub and live music sector.

Winlaw estimates Queensland’s 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. night economy as generating A$3.8 billion ($2.6 billion) per year. Nightlife Queensland secretary Nick Braban added, “As with the similar lockout rules in Sydney, young people will stop seeing the value of coming to entertainment precincts.”