Community clubs play a vital role in sports and socialising in Queensland and the ability to sell liquor can be critical for financial viability and member engagement. Depending on the purpose, size, and goals of your club, there is different licences and permits available and it is important to understand the benefits, restrictions, and limitations of each type to ensure you are suitably licensed.
Community Club Licence
In our experience, the most common licensing option for a not-for-profit club is the community club licence. This licence is available to non-proprietary organisations such as companies limited by guarantee, incorporated associations or unincorporated associations (which will be held by an individual on its behalf).
A community club licence authorises the sale of liquor for consumption on and off the premises to the club’s members, their guests, and visitors (with some eligibility requirements).
Importantly, a community club licence is the only club licence/permit type that allows the licensee to sell liquor for consumption off the premises to members (take away liquor), apply for a gaming machine licence, or apply for approved extended trading hours.
Community Other Licence
Another licensing option for a not-for-profit club is the community other licence. Like above, this licence is also available to non-proprietary organisations.
A community other licence authorises the sale of liquor on the premises for a maximum of 25 hours per week to the club’s members and guests (whilst in the member’s company). Where the relevant club is an RSL or services club, liquor may also be sold to an RSL honorary member or defence member and their guests (whilst in the member’s company).
If a community other licensee wishes to extend their hours for a one-off event, they must apply for a community liquor permit and temporary change to licensed area.
Restricted Liquor Permit
For not-for-profit clubs that operate on a more seasonal basis or share a clubhouse, they may find value in a restricted liquor permit.
This permit operates in the same manner as a community other licence and authorises trading up to ten hours per week, or between ten and 25 hours per week, for a minimum period of three months and up to six months at which point, you can apply for a renewal.
Community Liquor Permit
For not-for-profit clubs that do not have a liquor licence or wish to hold a one-off event involving liquor at an unlicensed premises, a community liquor permit will be required (unless an exemption applies and eligibility requirements are met). This is suitable for events such as school fetes, one-off sporting matches, trivia nights, etc.
This permit allows the sale or supply of liquor in the area defined on the permit for the number of days stated in the permit.
Please note that the risk level of the event must be considered, if it is considered to be a high-risk event, you will also be required to prepare an event management plan that can be provided to the OLGR or Queensland Police upon request. If the event is held in a public place controlled by the local council you will need to obtain the council’s consent to the application.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right liquor licence or permit for your club is a strategic decision, not merely an administrative step, and should factor in any further expansion plans as mistakes can be costly.
Early legal and regulatory advice can help with this decision, therefore, if your club is considering an application for a liquor licence or permit or wanting to organise an event, it is strongly recommended you engage experienced professionals for trusted advice that is appropriate and tailored to your circumstances, your organisation and your needs.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me on 07 3224 0353 if I can assist you with this.
