Free permits to support our restaurants, pubs


Released 26/03/2020

More than 100 Canberra restaurants, pubs and licensed establishments have applied for a free three-month commercial liquor permit, enabling them to diversify their business by selling takeaway alcohol.

Minister for Business and Regulatory Services Gordon Ramsay said this initiative by the ACT Government would support business to keep their doors opened.

“The ACT Government continues to look for ways we can innovate and support our businesses who may be struggling through trade restrictions as a result of COVID-19,” he said.

“We understand many of our businesses are doing it tough. As well as financial support, outlined in the Government’s Economic Survival Package, we are also looking at other levers we use across government to enable businesses to diversify their offerings and services.

“One of the ways we are doing this is assisting offering licensees with on liquor licences (ie. restaurants and pubs) and general (clubs). We are offering them a free three-month commercial liquor permit. This will allow businesses to sell liquor for consumption off premises

“We are pleased that since we advised licensed business of this option 24 hours ago, 35 such permits have been issued through Access Canberra and the Business Liaison Team are talking with at least 70 more businesses about it.”

Canberrans are asked to maintain safe physical distancing when purchasing takeaway food or alcohol and should not be congregating in public places or organising and attending social gatherings.

Minister Ramsay said more than 125 local businesses had also contacted the dedicated Business Liaison Line (6205 0900) created to support them with their compliance responsibilities as well as how they may be able to diversify their business.

“The team answering the calls are drawn from across Access Canberra and with support of the Economic Development Directorate,” he said.

The Government is implementing these measures to support local businesses and we continue to encourage the responsible consumption of alcohol.

A number of resources are available in the ACT If you or someone you know is feeling anxious or concerned about COVID-19.

- Statement ends -

Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases


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