Please visit Liquor Control Victoria’s website for liquor licensing, compliance, and regulatory information.
Licensed premises can potentially be a cause for a number of complaints from surrounding residents. By putting preventative measures in place, licensees can maintain a positive relationship with their neighbours and local residents.
Neighbours can become irritated by:
If Victoria Police becomes involved in disputes between neighbours and licensees, it may result in substantial fines, a reduction in licensed trading hours or suspension or cancellation of a licence.
Getting along with neighbours is vital for licensees as heavy penalties apply to those who ignore a neighbour’s reasonable request. The following tips can be used to take appropriate action and avoid escalating complaints.
Below are some tips to help prevent problems:
| Potential compliant | Preventative action |
| Noisy patrons | Alert customers for the need to depart quietly by making regular announcements prior to closing time. Display signs requesting customers respect the peace and quiet of the neighbourhood on departure. |
| Unruly patrons | Provide security staff to monitor the area around the licensed premises. |
| Lack of consultation | Get to know your neighbours, attend neighbourhood meetings and get involved with the community. |
| Lack of awareness surrounding community issues and concerns | Participate in liquor licensing forums or accords. Keep in touch with licensing and council representatives, policy and the wider community. |
If you have a complaint about noise levels or the behaviour of patrons leaving a licensed premises, contact the manager or licence holder and let them know your concerns. They should be willing to listen and take reasonable steps to address the problem.
Should the issue be more serious and involve a breach of the law, such as underage drinking or public drunkenness, then you should contact Victoria Police who will investigate your concerns.
