Objecting to a liquor licence application

A licensed premises contributes to the culture and prosperity of an area and can attract more visitors to the surrounding area, sometimes resulting in increased noise and other amenity issues.

We assess applications for a licence or permit, and variations or transfers of a licence or permit in accordance with the Liquor Control Act 1988 and other regulations. When considering the potential impact on amenity of an area, we consider:

• the possibility of nuisance or vandalism
• the harmony and coherence of the environment
• any other prescribed matters.

Grounds for objecting to a liquor licence

We can only accept objections to a liquor licence under the law on the following grounds:

• granting of the application would have an adverse impact on the amenity of the area
• in the case of a Packaged liquor licence it would be conducive to, or encourage, the misuse or abuse of alcohol or that granting the licence would be conducive to or encourage harm.

To object to a liquor licence, you must demonstrate that:

• the granting of the licence would have an adverse impact on the amenity of the area, and
• it would have a negative impact on you, the objector.

The following are not valid reasons for objection:

• the business would not be successful
• another licensed business would be adversely affected
• there is insufficient need or demand to justify the grant of the application.

When an objection is made, the impact to the amenity of the area plays a significant role in the decision to refuse or grant the licence application. Amenity means the quality of an area that is pleasant and agreeable.

Public notice and details of liquor licence applications

Some applications for liquor licences require the display of an A3 size public notice at the proposed licensed premises in a manner that invites public attention for up to 28 days.

During this time, members of the community can object to the liquor licence application.

However, there are certain types of applications that do not have the requirement to display a public notice including BYO, pre-retail and some temporary licences and therefore, you cannot object to those applications.

To search for liquor licence applications received by us, see Liquor licences and applications online

Details of a liquor licence application are also on the public notice displayed at the proposed licensed premises.

How to make an objection

Important: All objections will be treated as public documents. Full details of the objection, including the name and address of the objector will be provided to the licence applicant and they will be invited to address any objectors concerns.

For us to consider an objection, it must be:

• made in writing
• made within the timeframes set out in the Act (see Public notice above)
• clearly set out the grounds on which the objection is made and state the reasons for the objection.

To make an objection online use the form at the bottom of this page.

Objections can also be sent via email to contact@liquor.vic.gov.au

They can be posted to:

Liquor Control Victoria
PO Box 1019
RICHMOND NORTH VIC 3121

Refusal to accept an objection

We can refuse to accept an objection if:

• the person making the objection is not affected by the application
• the objection is frivolous or vexatious
• the objection is not in accordance with the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998.

Withdrawal of an objection

If you have made an objection and decide to withdraw it, you can do so at anytime.

Information on withdrawing an application is included in an acceptance email sent directly to the objector(s).

How to appeal a decision

An applicant or objector may apply to have a decision reviewed, however the Victorian Liquor Commission can only review decisions made by a single commissioner or delegate.

The appeal must be lodged within 28 days after the (whichever is the latter of the two dates):

• decision first came to the notice of the applicant or objector, or
• applicant or objector received a statement of reasons for the decision.

You can lodge an appeal application by submitting a completed application form, and supporting documentation by:

• Email to contact@liquor.vic.gov.au
• Mail to:
  
  Liquor Control Victoria
  PO Box 1019
  RICHMOND NORTH VIC 3121

The appeal application form is below.

Role of police and local councils

We send certain liquor licence applications to Victoria Police or the relevant local council for comment as outlined below. We may also seek the views of police and local council for any licence application not listed below.