For some months the state government has been trialling a crackdown on the sale of alcohol at Newcastle hotels. Restrictions include a 10.00 pm cut-off for strong drinks, a prohibition on the sale of more than four drinks to any patron at one time, a 1.00 am lockout, a ban on liquor sales 30 minutes before closing, and a closing time of 3.00 am.
The results are impressive, such as a 29 per cent drop in reported assaults after dark. And who knows how many instances of domestic violence and other issues have declined as a result of more responsible drinking habits?
The Australian Medical Association, the NSW Police Association, the Nurses Association and the Health Services Union have now called for the restrictions to be rolled out across the state.
The NSW Council of Churches strongly supports this move, and urges the government and the liquor industry to act in the community’s best interests.
Broadcast on 2CH Sydney, Sunday 11 April 2010.
