Released 20/12/2018
The previous owners of Soundbox Karaoke Bar have received a fine of $20,000, a public reprimand and disqualified from applying for a liquor license or permit for 18 months, in orders handed down by the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).
The final orders were made on 10 December 2018 and followed several incidents which occurred in 2017 which contravened the Liquor Act 2010. The previous owners were HH & HD Pty Ltd.
Examples of incidents included: serving of alcohol to intoxicated patrons, the sale of unopened alcohol and spirits by the bottle, not checking the ID of patrons and drunken behavior within the premises which required medical and/or police attendance. This included patrons being involved in brawls and also falling losing consciousness from intoxication on the premises.
Concerns were also raised around the lack of CCTV monitoring and not retaining or providing footage on request.
It is important to note that the karaoke bar is now under new ownership, but has retained the name of Soundbox Karaoke Bar. The current owners are not involved in the incidents or orders.
ACT Fair Trading Commissioner David Snowden welcomed the Tribunal’s judgement which followed an investigation by Access Canberra.
“This action sends a strong message to licensees that they have legal obligation to not supply liquor to an intoxicated person on licensed premises,” he said.
“Supplying liquor to intoxicated people contributes to anti-social behaviour, alcohol related violence, the costs of which are borne by injured individuals and the whole community.
“Industry should be aware that we are serious about the responsible service of liquor in venues across the ACT and while we work to educate venues and professionals about their responsibilities, we do not hesitate in taking action to ensure Canberrans are protected where it is appropriate.
“This festive season my message to venues is clear: support the safety of our community by serving alcohol responsibly and in accordance with licence and permit requirements or face the consequences.”
A copy of the ACAT Orders can be found at ACAT website.
- Statement ends -
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