Statewide lockout FAQ
Since 1995, Liquor Licensing Queensland has imposed lock-out conditions as a means of controlling behaviour by preventing the movement of patrons between premises.
The lock-out condition means patrons are not permitted to enter or re-enter the premises after a designated time (usually 2am or 3am) and before the close of trade.
Patrons who are inside a nightclub when the lock-out commences are permitted to stay until the close of trade.
Patrons who leave are not permitted to re-enter under any circumstance. This includes when patrons leave for the following reasons:
- to have a cigarette outside the venue
- to meet friends waiting outside
- to go to the toilet at an alternate venue
- to get money from an ATM
The lock-out conditions are designed to improve public and patron safety and are supported by local councils, police and community groups.
Under the Liquor Act 1992, venues with an on-premises (Cabaret) licence are permitted to trade until 3am. Licensees wishing to trade beyond this time must apply for an extended hours permit, renewable every six months.
Many late night premises have their extended hours permit granted on the proviso certain conditions are met. These conditions, in addition to a lock-out, may include requirements for increased lighting, video surveillance and taxi rank security.
Frequently asked questions on the statewide 3am lockout are listed below.
Download the 3am lockout Fact Sheet from the Fact Sheets section of the Publications and Resources page.
How does the new Statewide lockout work?
The statutory Statewide lockout works by prohibiting licensed venues from allowing any patrons to enter or re-enter their premises after 3am until the end of the trading period.
Why is a Statewide 3am lockout necessary?
The Statewide lockout is necessary to address alcohol related violence around the state, and to meet community expectations of government intervention to address these issues. Lockouts are a responsible crowd management practice which are known to reduce violence on the streets surrounding licensed venues.
When did the Statewide lockout commence?
The Statewide lockout commenced at 12:01 am on Saturday, 1 July 2006.
Are there any exemptions to the Statewide 3am lockout?
Yes. Exemptions to the lockout have been provided for casinos, airport terminals, accommodation areas of licensed premises and Gold Coast licensees during the annual Indy Carnival.
Does the Statewide lockout apply to New Year’s Eve?
New years eve is a special event and therefore pubs and clubs are able to trade until 5am. The 3am lockout does not apply on this night.
Why are casinos exempt from the Statewide lockout?
The casinos have never been subject to lockouts. Casino trading hours and conduct are regulated under the Casino Control Act 1982 and are generally strict with regards to security, lighting and cameras. The level of security is higher than on other licensed premises regulated under the Liquor Act, making casinos a lower risk environment. Casinos also play a significant role as part of the tourism infrastructure of the state.
Why are airports terminals exempt from the Statewide lockout?
Airports are an integral part of the domestic and international tourist trade. Airports are seen to be a minor risk as the service of alcohol is only a minor ancillary aspect of their role, and most patrons are only there for a short period of time before or after their flight. Nevertheless, the legislation only exempts the airport terminal from the lockout provision to avoid potential abuse of the exemption through the establishment of function rooms or nightclubs in the airport precinct.
Why are residential areas of licensed premises exempt from the Statewide lockout?
The residential accommodation exemption recognises that guests will need to be able to access their room after a night on the town to enjoy a good nights' sleep. The legislation is designed to particularly target late night entertainment venues, not to prevent people access to their rooms after a late night.
Is the Gold Coast Indy Carnival exempt from the Statewide lockout?
Yes, licensees on the Gold Coast are exempt from the lockout during the Indy Carnival.
Can earlier lockouts still be imposed through licence conditions?
Yes. The Chief Executive can still impose earlier lockouts through licence conditions, particularly for premises that do not trade past 3am, under section 107C of the Act. For example, the existing 11.30pm lockout in Beaudesert, the 1:30am lockout on the Sunshine Coast and 2am lockout in Ipswich will still apply.
Will existing earlier lockout conditions be maintained?
Yes. All existing lockout arrangements prior to 3am will continue.
If people want to go outside for a smoke or for another reason will they be allowed to re-enter after 3am?
Under the lockout patrons will not be allowed to re-enter a licensed premise after 3am - so if they go outside for a cigarette, to move a car or to meet up with friends they will not be allowed to re-enter the venue.
Liquor Licensing investigators, police and emergency personnel who are carrying out their official duties are not affected by the lockout and will be able to enter or re-enter a licensed premises after 3am.
Employees of a licensed premise can also enter and re-enter the premise after 3am if they are on duty.
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Last reviewed 19 November 2009
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