It is a common misconception that obtaining a liquor licence is simply filling out a form paying the fee and a licence will be mailed out in the post. Why would I need help to do this?

Well unfortunately as with most things involving the Government there is a lot of red tape and there are a lot of hoops you have to jump through before you can get a liquor licence. A Key point to note is that lodging a form and paying the fee does not guarantee you a licence. Getting a liquor licence is not a right like getting a driving licence not everyone will get approval. If you don’t jump through the right hoop it may take many months or you may not even get a liquor licence at all.

Firstly, it is very important to note that it generally takes between 6-8 weeks to go through the licensing process, providing you have all the correct consents and approvals. Without the correct consents particularly with Council the licensing process can take many more months so it is very important to plan ahead.

For new licenses there is a 4 week public notification period where your application will be put in the Advertiser and a local paper circulating in the area. This gives the opportunity for any neighbour or interested parties to make objections to your application. You will also need the consent of Council and SAPOL. Should you receive any objections your matter will be set for a conciliation hearing where you will need to resolve the issues with objecting parties.

If conciliation with the Commissioner is unsuccessful the matter will either be adjourned or dismissed and you will need a Solicitor to take the matter to the Licensing Court. From here it will be up to a Judge to decide whether or not your licence should be granted and under what conditions.

Too complicated? Here at Lion Liquor Licensing Consultants we will take the hassle out of the process. Give us a call and speak with a consultant today obligation free.