Minors and the law
A minor is a person under 18 years of age. Under the Liquor Act 1992, a minor is not permitted (with some exemptions) to be on licensed premises (including bottle shops).
The exceptions are if the minor is a resident, employee, person conducting lawful business, undertaking training or work experience, at a function, eating a meal, or accompanied by a responsible adult. However there are also restrictions around each of these categories of minor.
Penalties
- Except for in the above-mentioned cases, if you are under 18 years of age on a licensed premises you risk an on-the-spot fine of $300. You may receive another on-the-spot fine of $225 if you are in possession of or have consumed liquor.
- As well as on-the-spot fines, court action can be taken and you may subsequently receive a fine of up to $2 500 for each offence you commit.
- The licensee and staff may also be fined up to $25 000 and staff may also lose their jobs as a result of your presence.
Further information on the full list of on-the-spot fines (PDF 45 K) relating to minors and the Liquor Act 1992.
If you are under 18, it is even illegal to hold a friend’s drink or to carry a carton of beer.
For more information on Minors and Alcohol (PDF 110 K) download a fact sheet.
Last reviewed 28 October 2010