South Australia’s Late Night Trading Code of Practice (Late Night Code) under the Liquor Licensing Act 1997 changed on 1 November 2023.
Consumer and Business Services (CBS) had undertaken a review of the code that applies to most licensed venues that trade past 2am. It strikes a balance to allow extended trading by licensees without requiring last drinks earlier in the night, like that which occurs in Australia’s eastern states.
Final amendments commenced Wednesday 1 November 2023. The changes are subject to a one month transition period, allowing time for compliance with new requirements.
Licensees, venues and staff are now asked to start preparing for the changes that will:
- require a Responsible Person to perform the duties of a drinks marshal between 2.01am and 7am every Saturday, Sunday and public holiday while open for trade (no longer all 7 days per week)
- clarify that a drinks marshal may exercise existing powers as a Responsible Person to actively intervene
- make clear restrictions on the sale of beverages promoting rapid or excessive consumption of alcohol after 2am includes ‘shots’ as well as ‘shooters’
- specify metal detectors (such as wands) are to be operated by a licensed ‘security agent’ rather than a ‘suitably trained employee’ when screening patrons entering licensed premises between midnight and 3am
- require improvements in CCTV quality to identify people with certainty and ensure more specific venue coverage.
To better understand what that means for you please view this simple printable flyer
The new Late Night Code, effective from 1 November 2023, can also be read on the CBS consultation webpage,
Further to these changes, the Adelaide Liquor Accord is also being re-established, comprising of licensed venues, South Australia Police, SA Health, the City of Adelaide Council and other relevant agencies and organisations.
