ANDREW Barr and Simon Corbell say the ACT Government will proceed with a range of reforms to the Liquor Act later this year, but they will not include changes to opening hours. The proposal to have a changed fee structure for the small number of venues that stay open past 3am will also not progress.

“After careful consideration of options in the Liquor White Paper and taking into account the broad range of community views, the Government has determined to rule out making changes to rules around last drinks or closing times,” Andrew said.

“The Government will continue to work with vendors, patrons and police to keep Canberra safe.

“Work will continue to develop legislation for introduction in late 2016 to make it easier for bars and clubs to run interesting and diverse events, which will support our city’s live music and entertainment scene. This will include initiatives like lower licence fees for lower risk venues and red tape reduction for cafes.

“We will also to continue to work with venues and the police to ensure our streets are safe. New legal definitions will be developed to make it easier to deal with people who are intoxicated.

“The Government will make sure we continue to have a lively, diverse and safe nightlife. Over the coming weeks, we will release our plans to bring more events, support live music, and help the community get together to enjoy the city we all love.”

Simon said addressing alcohol-fuelled violence remains a priority for the Government.

“The Government is committed to continuing to work with key stakeholders to develop a broad consensus around reforms needed and measures that will work in Canberra to reduce alcohol-related violence,” said Simon.

“There is no place in our city for alcohol-fuelled violence and we will continue to work to keep our streets safe.

“ACT Policing are doing good work to reduce alcohol related harm in the City, with a specialist team dedicated to patrolling licensed premises and entertainment precincts, and the community can be assured this will continue.”