Liquor venues on notice: prioritise patron safety over numbers


Released 08/06/2017

Canberra liquor venues are on notice to prioritise the safety of their patrons by not exceeding occupation loading requirements, Commissioner for Fair Trading David Snowden said today.

The warning follows a recent penalty provided to Garema Place establishment – Playground Bar - for flouting occupancy loading requirements.

Through ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal mediation a fine of $5000 was issued following three instances of occupancy loading not being adhered to at Playground Bar.

“This venue failed to heed repeated requests to comply with their maximum number of patrons,” Mr Snowden said.

“Occupancy loadings for venues are put into place by ACT Fire & Rescue for a specific purpose - that is the maximum number of people able to safely exit a venue in an emergency.

“Safety must override profit at all times and Access Canberra, working in partnership with

ACT Policing, will be strongly focused on ensuring adherence to loadings through regular checks. Liquor venues must ensure that maximum occupancy loadings are adhered to.”

Mr Snowden said venues should ensure:

  • that occupancy loading restrictions are clearly displayed at the venue
  • staff (including security personnel) are aware of the venue’s loading requirements and have arrangements in place to manage occupancy numbers
  • fire exits are not blocked or locked
  • emergency exit signs are maintained and operational; and
  • be aware that loadings are regularly checked by ACT Policing and Access Canberra for the safety of patrons.

“We all need to do our part to ensure that Canberrans can have a great and a safe night out,” Mr Snowden concluded.

- Statement ends -

ACT Chief Minister and Treasury Directorate | Media Releases

Media Contacts

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Emily Springett

(02) 6205 9093

0413 169 029

emily.springett@act.gov.au


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