Three Perth nightclubs have earned a rebuke from the State’s liquor watchdog for crowding patrons over their venue’s legal capacity.
While refusing to name the venues caught out packing in revellers, Director of Liquor Licensing Lanie Chopping warned licensees they could face prosecution if they fail to comply with their occupancy limits.
Using CCTV footage to count the number people entering leaving licenced premises, Racing, Gaming and Liquor inspectors described the breaches as “significant”.
“Our inspectors will continue to monitor the crowd size inside licensed premises and take enforcement action when a breach of any licence condition is identified,” Ms Chopping said.
“Breaches of occupancy limits may result in prosecution under the relevant legislation, resulting in fines and, in some cases, suspension or the loss of a trading licence.
“Overcrowding presents clear risks to health and safety in the event of an emergency that requires evacuation. It also increases the likelihood of aggression and violence, and reduces the ability of staff to monitor patrons to ensure the responsible service of alcohol.”
Ms Chopping said if caught again, venues would be subject to further action.
”DLGSC inspectors will continue to monitor crowd sizes at licensed venues and issue warnings to the licensees who fail to comply. Further action will be taken against repeat offenders,” she said.
Source Agencies
