A move in the right direction (NSW Liquor Laws)

This is a fantastic move in the right direction by the NSW Govt. The archaic liquor licensing laws have meant that the entry to the market has been so high that it is prohibitive for the smaller business segment.
Now if only the Federal Govt could refine the alcohol taxation laws for beer brewers in line with what they have done for the wine industry (Wine Equalisation Tax), there will be a small explosion of micro breweries across the country.

Cave-in: small bars triumph
Andrew Clennell State Political Editor
November 6, 2007

SMALL bars will be able to open across Sydney, serving alcohol without food, after a backdown by the Iemma Government.
The Premier, Morris Iemma, last night hailed the new laws as a dramatic transformation of Sydney's drinking culture that would create a "true cosmopolitan city".Despite the Government's longstanding opposition to change, the revised Liquor Act will cut licence fees from about $15,000 to as little as $500 for a small bar and $2000 for a hotel.

The Herald has also campaigned for more Melbourne-style small bars to give drinkers an alternative to big hotels filled with poker machines.Ms Moore was cautious last night, saying "the devil will be in the detail". But she welcomed "any change that will reduce costs and provide flexibility on small bars … and [meet] the demands of the community to encourage small venues to enter the current pub and club-dominated market".

Cave-in: small bars triumph - National - smh.com.au

Blogged with Flock