You need to fill in the correct forms, including the Application for Certificate of Compliance (or use MS Word [DOC 282KB]) under the sale of Liquor Act 1989, and submit them to the Liquor Licensing Team. Once submitted copies of the application and supporting documents will be forwarded to the nearest police station and where relevant, Community Public Health for their report. The licensing inspector must also report on your application. Inquiries by any of these organisations may involve an interview and/or visit to the premises.
Once all reports have been obtained along with copies of the public notices placed in 'The Press' or 'Star' and providing no public objections have been received the District Licensing Agency will determine the application. Otherwise the application will be forwarded to the Liquor Licensing Authority for determination, generally by way of a public hearing.
Who is involved in making the decision?
The Sale of Liquor Act requires reports on each application from the following officers:
- On and club licence applications - the Police, Community Public Health, and licensing inspector.
- Off licences, special licences, and all Managers Certificates - the Police and licensing inspector.
- Temporary authorities - the licensing inspector and the Police.
Can I trade before I get my liquor licence?
You cannot sell or supply liquor without a licence. However if the premises has a current licence at the time you take over the business, you may be able to obtain a temporary authority. This permits you to operate for three months, based on the existing licence and with the existing conditions.
More information can be found in the following pamphlets:
