Special licences are issued for specific events or occasions and are valid only over the timeframe specified in the licence. A series of related events can be specified on the one licence. The licence can be issued for a period of up to 12 months.
The holder of the special licence must control the sale and consumption of liquor at the event and ensure statutory responsibilities are observed. It is a requirement that a person holding a managers certificate is appointed although this requirement may be exempted by the Agency at its discretion and will depend on the type of event. If exempted, a person must be nominated to manage the conduct of the sale of liquor under the licence.
Special licences may also be issued for off sales in situations such as market days.
When is a special licence required?
A special licence is required if liquor is being sold. Sale includes situations where the liquor is being provided as part of an inclusive charge for any service or gathering – eg cover charges for entry which include a “free glass of wine” etc.
Situations where a special licence is required include:
- No on or club licence is held
- A caterer does not hold an endorsed off-licence
- Club licensed premises are hired out for private functions and either the club or the person hiring the premises is selling liquor to attendees
- The function is outside the hours or area authorised on an existing on-licence or club licence
- A special licence is not required for private functions where all the alcohol is provided free of any charge to attendees – eg 21st birthday parties, wedding functions etc.
Applying for a special licence
- The fee for a special licence is $64.40 and is non-refundable
- If you do not own the premises, the owner's consent must be included with the application
- A floor plan of the premises must be included in the application
- The processing time for an application for a special licence is 25 working days
- The company or person taking the profit from the sale of liquor should be the applicant
- You must be 20 years or older to apply
Special licence applications should be made well in advance of the event(s) as there is a statutory timeframe of 20 working days for the police to report on the application. If the application is likely to be controversial more time should be allowed as a public hearing may be required for such applications.
Forms
- Download an application for a special licence for premises
- Download an application for a special licence for a conveyance ( conveyance means any ship,ferry, aircraft, hovercraft,train,coach, or other vehicle used for the transport of persons)