CFT 
Summer Preparation for Licensed Venues
As the festive season kicks into high gear, it’s time for licensed venues and RSA-certified staff to gear up for a safe and responsible summer. December brings not only warm weather and festive cheer but also increased activity in bars, restaurants, and outdoor dining spaces. If you are based in Victoria, Liquor Control Victoria (LCV) inspectors will be visiting venues to promote compliance and minimise alcohol-related harm, ensuring end-of-year celebrations remain safe for everyone.
Whether you’re a licensee or a staff member with Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification, it’s essential to prioritise safety, compliance, and good neighbourly practices during this busy period.
Key Steps to Prepare Your Venue for a Safe and Responsible Summer
- Reinforce RSA Principles The foundation of a safe summer is reinforcing the principles of Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) with your staff. Make sure everyone understands how to identify intoxicated patrons, prevent underage drinking, and limit excessive alcohol service. A quick refresher will keep staff prepared for busy nights and ensure compliance with RSA requirements.
- Ensure Adequate Staffing and Security Summer events mean increased traffic, so plan ahead by scheduling enough security and bar staff to handle the surge in customers. Make sure your staff is equipped to verify digital driver licenses and manage customer behavior effectively. Training in handling challenging situations, like intoxicated patrons, will help your venue run smoothly and safely.
- Be Ready for Inspections LCV inspectors will be visiting licensed venues to assess compliance. To avoid delays, ensure your liquor license, red line plan, and RSA certificates are easily accessible and up-to-date. Regularly review your venue’s compliance with liquor licensing laws to stay ahead of any potential issues.
How to Respect Neighbours During Outdoor Festivities
With outdoor dining and drinking on the rise during the warmer months, it’s essential to maintain a good relationship with your neighbors by controlling noise and reducing disturbances:
- Control Noise Levels Keep amplified speakers and PA systems at reasonable volumes, especially in outdoor areas like beer gardens. Monitoring the noise levels from outdoor spaces will prevent complaints from nearby residents and ensure your venue stays compliant with noise regulations.
- Plan for Bottle Disposal Emptying bottles into bins late at night can cause unnecessary noise and disrupt the neighborhood. Plan your bottle disposal to avoid disturbances during late hours.
- Manage Customer Exits Ensure patrons leave quietly after their event to minimize noise and disruptions for the surrounding community. A well-managed exit strategy can reduce any late-night noise complaints.
- Consider Noise-Reduction Measures Implement noise reduction strategies, such as using barriers, repositioning speakers, or placing vegetation, to limit noise pollution in your outdoor areas. Small adjustments can go a long way in preserving your venue’s reputation and good relations with neighbors.
Why This Matters: Prioritising Safe and Responsible Celebrations
Preparing your venue for a safe summer isn't just about compliance—it's about creating an environment where both your patrons and the surrounding community can enjoy the festivities without harm. By focusing on responsible service and adhering to noise control practices, you'll not only avoid potential conflicts but also enhance your venue's reputation as a safe and enjoyable place to celebrate.
As a licensed venue or RSA holder, it's your responsibility to ensure end-of-year functions are safe, fun, and compliant. By following these tips, you’ll contribute to a positive atmosphere that encourages patrons to return for future events, long after the festive season is over.
Want to Learn More About RSA and Compliance?
If you're due for your RSA certification renewal or want to refresh your knowledge on responsible service, explore our RSA courses starting at just $49. Preparing for a safe summer starts with understanding your obligations and ensuring your venue is ready to provide responsible service of alcohol.
Get ready for a summer full of safe celebrations and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your venue is equipped to handle any situation with professionalism and care.
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