There was good news for licensed venues in NSW, as they are now permitted on Good Friday and ANZAC to sell alcohol with a meal.
The Liquor & Gaming NSW and NSW Fair Trading issued a Statement of Regulatory Intent to lift the long weekend alcohol restrictions to create an opportunity for trade.
“This is for the businesses doing it tough and people at home doing the right thing to protect their communities,” says John Tansay, executive director of policy and strategy.
“Some licensees who hold a liquor licence would normally be able to trade on a Good Friday, but we’re extending that to all pubs, clubs, small bars, restaurants and cafes that sell food.
“Likewise, ANZAC Day is normally a restricted day for trade, but given the circumstances it’s also a chance for some of our most impacted businesses to maintain operations and keep their staff employed.”
On Good Friday, venues with liquor licences can sell takeaway alcohol, with a meal, during their normal trading hours within a 12-10pm window.
This exemption does not apply to packaged liquor licensees such as bottleshops – these businesses are subject to their normal Good Friday closure.
On ANZAC Day, venues with liquor licences can sell alcohol during their usual trading hours, while packaged liquor licensees can open as usual from 1pm until normal close of trade.
“This Easter long weekend and ANZAC Day will look very different to all we’ve had before but I’m sure people will find creative and safe ways to connect with their friends and loved ones while practising social distancing,” Tansey adds.