Changes to the state’s Late Night Trading Code of Practice for venues with a liquor licence are set to come into effect at the start of next month, following further consultation with the industry.

In August, the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner, Dini Soulio, completed a review of the Code, confirming it would remain in effect, with some changes that would primarily clarify existing provisions.

Mr Soulio has consulted with key stakeholders on the changes, which included:

- Clarifying that shots are covered by the provisions preventing the sale of beverages promoting rapid or excessive consumption of liquor after 2am
- Clarifying that drinks marshals can actively intervene as appropriate
- Providing that metal detectors can only be operated by licensed security agents
- Enhancing the requirements relating to Closed Circuit TV cameras to ensure its technical quality can identify people with certainly and to provide more specific venue coverage.

“The lockout and the broader Code of Practice play a role in protecting public safety, as evidenced by the data – which shows a marked reduction in both alcohol-related presentations to the Royal Adelaide Hospital and a reduction in offences in the CBD committed between midnight and 7am,” Mr Soulio said.

“This strikes a balance to allow extended trading by licensees without requiring last drinks earlier in the night, as occurs in Australia’s eastern states.

“The measures I proposed were primarily aimed at clarifying existing provisions, rather than imposing new or cumbersome measures on licensed venues.

“I have since received advice that the Australian Hotels Association support the clarification around restrictions on alcoholic beverages after 2am, as well as the CCTV requirements.

“In response to their concerns, I have modified the proposal around the requirements for drinks marshals – to require the use of a drinks marshal solely between 2.01am and 7am every Saturday, Sunday and public holiday.

“Staff from CBS and SAPOL’s Licensing Enforcement Branch will be monitoring these changes closely, and the Code will be reviewed again in another three years.”

Mr Soulio said that while the revised Code will come into effect on November 1, there will be a one month transition, to assist venues with any changes they need to make.

To find out more, visit www.cbs.sa.gov.au/LNCode