ACT Policing’s Community and Business Liaison Team will today (Thursday 19 November 2009) conclude its series of forums to promote the responsible service of alcohol in Canberra’s entertainment districts, predominately in the Civic area.
Today’s workshop is the final in a series of three attended by liquor licensees, members of ACT Policing’s Crime Prevention team, members of the Office of Regulatory Services, and Directions ACT. Police have been regularly consulting with licensees in the ACT, particularly in Civic, with the aim of raising understanding of the importance of the responsible service of alcohol and working together to discuss strategies to minimise anti-social behaviour and ensure public safety.
The workshops have provided an opportunity for those in the industry to meet with police and ORS staff and discuss issues relevant to them. In recent weeks, ACT Policing’s Business Liaison officers have visited a number of businesses to enlist the support of licensees and to encourage attendance at these workshops. Approximately 75 attendees have participated so far in the workshops which conclude today.
Business Liaison Officer, Senior Constable Nick Keeling said that it was important licensees work with police and ORS to ensure they are complying with the requirements of the Liquor Act including serving alcohol responsibly.
“It becomes everyone’s problem if people are allowed to drink to excess and then misbehave in the street, or are permitted to continue drinking somewhere else,” Snr Const Keeling said.
“The flow-on effects of irresponsible service of liquor can be significant, with the potential implications including fighting, offensive behaviour and drink-driving. It is incumbent on all of us in the community to play a part in maximising safety when having a night out. Hosting forums like these means we are serious about working with the industry and the community to achieve this.”
ACT Policing will continue with a high visibility presence in the CBD to address drunkenness and safety in the entertainment precincts. To date, positive feedback has been received from the community and licensees. Police will consider further workshops if interest from industry continues.