SIMON Corbell has announced new laws to allow venues to establish outdoor bars.

“This is great news for Canberra’s hospitality industry,” Simon said.

“The ACT Government recognises that the sector is evolving, and the removal of these historic constraints on the service of alcohol will let venues provide the sort of service Canberrans are seeking.

“These new laws will allow venues with approvals for patrons to drink alcohol in outdoor dining areas to serve alcohol from a bar set up in the outdoor dining area.

“Currently the Liquor Regulation 2010 prohibits outdoor dining areas at licensed premises having a bar.

“The prohibition exists for historic reasons which are no longer relevant in today’s society, and is an unnecessary constraint on business and customer service.

“This reform is an example of the ACT Government’s commitment to an ongoing program of reforms to reduce regulatory burdens for business.”

Information to assist businesses seeking to establish a new outdoor bar, including easy-to-follow advice on what approvals may be required, is contained in A Guide for Outdoor Bars available on the Access Canberra website www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au

The guide provides information on issues to consider when setting up an outdoor bar, such as staffing, security and safety requirements. It also outlines the approval process for simple setups and for more complex proposals, such as those that require a permanent structure.