Media release – Jeremy Rockliff, Premier and Minister for Tourism, 16 March 2025

A fairer and simpler liquor licence system

A major overhaul of liquor licence rules will deliver a fairer and simpler system that backs in business and supports jobs.

Premier and Minister for Tourism, Jeremy Rockliff, announced the commencement of sweeping reforms to the liquor licensing process as part of the Tasmanian Government’s war on red tape.

“Whether you are running a small bar, a winery, a tourism business or an event – we want to make things simpler, faster and fairer,” Premier Rockliff said.

“These reforms are about modernising outdated rules, cutting red tape and importantly, creating new opportunities for small businesses.

“We will make it easier and faster to get a liquor licence through a new digital system that will allow businesses to submit applications, track their progress and receive approvals faster.

“If an application is not rejected within a 10-day time frame, the licence will be deemed approved.

“Businesses will also be able to choose a licence that fits their needs, instead of being forced to apply for multiple licences or operate under restrictions that just don’t make sense for their needs.”

A fit and proper person’s test will still apply.

“We will create new fit-for-purpose licence categories ensuring they are flexible and align with their business models,” Premier Rockliff said.

“These categories will include licences tailored for small producers like our wineries, cellar doors and microbreweries, as well as event permits designed for festivals and multi-vendor events to make approvals easier.

“Backing in small business has always been in the DNA of our Liberal Government so we are going to level the playing field and acknowledge the level of risk when considering licence fees.

“A risk-based fee structure will be implemented so low-risk businesses pay lower fees, making licensing fairer and more affordable for smaller operators like boutique wineries.

“These reforms will bring our liquor laws into the 21st century by removing outdated rules and making sure businesses can operate in a way that makes sense today.

“These reforms continue our war on red tape and will ensure Tasmania is the best place to do business in the country.”

Media release – Jane Howlett, Minister for Hospitality and Small Business, 17 March 2025

Boosting hospitality offerings with modern regulations

Greater opportunities for hospitality businesses to offer outdoor dining, takeaway and late night trading will be available as the Tasmanian Liberal Government modernises liquor licensing regulations.

The change comes as part of the Government’s major overhaul of the outdated of the liquor licence rules.

Minister for Hospitality and Small Business, Jane Howlett, said currently Tasmanian business owners must apply for multiple separate permits during the course of a year to do simple things like serve alcohol outdoors or extend their hours for special events.

“Hospitality businesses have been telling us this red tape is holding them back from taking their business to the next level,” Minister Howlett said.

“Through our new licence endorsements, we will give businesses permission to act under their licence rather than having to apply for multiple permits.

“These changes will make it easier for restaurants and cafes to serve drinks outdoors, allow extended trading after dark where appropriate and give hospitality businesses more flexibility in how they operate when it comes to take-away offerings.

“By doing so, we will help create a more vibrant and attractive hospitality scene for visitors and locals alike.

“We want to make things simpler, faster and fairer for hospitality businesses and we can do that by bringing our liquor regulations into the 21st century.

“That’s what it means to back business, create jobs and keep our economy strong.

“And doing so means we can ensure Tasmania is the best place to do business in the country.”

Media release – Dean Winter MP, Labor Leader, 16 March 2025

Labor leading on licensing reform

Once again, the minority Liberal Government is following Labor’s lead when it comes to supporting economic growth and jobs.

As part of our bold Night-Time Economy Strategy, Labor committed to modernising Tasmania’s 35-year-old Liquor Licensing Act in February*, while also announcing a suite of supporting initiatives to boost the economy.

There haven’t been any major amendments to the Act in almost a decade and our liquor regulations reflect an era when the economy shut down at 5pm. In 2025, Tasmania needs laws that support a thriving 24-hour economy.

Labor is once again leading the charge to ensure Tasmania’s economy grows, jobs are created, and our vibrant culture thrives. Modernising our Liquor Licensing Act is not just about laws – it’s about unlocking the full potential of Tasmania’s nighttime economy.

*Labor would conduct a complete review of the act, and focus on supporting economic growth with measures such as:

  • Introducing a simplified, low-cost liquor licence for small businesses, pop-up events and food trucks.
  • Establishing “live music and cultural precincts” to protect venues from noise complaints.
  • Streamlining permits for festivals and events with a “one-stop-shop” approach for approvals.
  • Guaranteeing liquor licence approval timeframes to provide certainty for businesses and event organisers.
  • Expanding affordable late-night transport options in collaboration with public and private providers.
  • Encouraging family-friendly and non-alcoholic options such as twilight markets, outdoor cinemas and expanded non-alcoholic drink offerings.
  • Supporting partnerships between arts organisations and licensed venues with co-funding for events that combine liquor service with live performance, gallery exhibitions or community arts.

Media release – Tasmania Police, 3 March 2025

73 barring orders issued in southern Tasmania

Police are continuing to focus on public safety at licensed premises, with 73 barring orders issued in Southern Tasmania this financial year.

Sergeant Peter Andricopoulos from the Southern District Licensing Unit said the focus is about creating a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

“We work closely with venues to ensure anyone whose behaviour poses a public safety risk, or breaches liquor licensing laws, is prevented from entering licensed premises,” he said.

“So far this financial year we have issued 73 barring orders.”

“These orders have been issued for a range of reasons, including intoxication and acting in a violent or disorderly manner.”

“Barring orders have also been issued for the safety of staff and patrons when serious assaults, drug offences and property damage have occurred or threats have been made to staff.”

“Police will continue to work with licensed venues to ensure compliance with liquor licensing legislation, as this not only protects patrons but also contributes to the overall safety and wellbeing of the community.”