Queensland nightclub lockout may be scrapped after public backlash

The controversial lockout at Queensland pubs and clubs could be scrapped after an online survey found almost 90 per cent of partygoers were against it.

The State Government will hold a one-off youth liquor forum on Wednesday to gauge their reaction to 68 recommendations made to curb drunken violence following a parliamentary inquiry.

But the Queensland Police Union claims the Government is "going soft" on the problem after pressure from the liquor industry.

Liquor Licensing Minister Peter Lawlor said the final report would be delayed for further consultation.

"Considering the clear passion for the issue (alcohol-fuelled violence) and that young people have a stake in any changes to Queensland's nightlife, it's important to gain their perspective before any decisions are made," Mr Lawlor said.

"This is a complex issue and one that requires extensive consultation with key stakeholders including police and the public."

Currently a 3am lockout exists, but the Law, Safety and Justice Committee which held the inquiry, wants it wound back to 2am.

The committee also recommended weekday trading for licensed venues cease no later than 2am in areas identified as "entertainment precincts", and 1am elsewhere.

On weekends, venues would trade until 4am instead of 5am in entertainment precincts and 3am elsewhere.

Queensland Police Union president Ian Leavers said the Bligh Government was "attempting to undermine the recommendations of the bi-partisan committee into alcohol fuelled violence", particularly in relation to reduced trading hours which were unpopular with youth and licensees but popular with the general population.

"Queenslanders overwhelmingly supported earlier closing times for venues yet the Bligh Government seems to determined to establish some dodgy basis for walking away from the very sensible recommendations," he said.

"Alcohol-fuelled violence is a huge public safety issue and yet the Government seem determined to delay, obfuscate and dilute when it comes to the recommendations."

Brisbane's Valley Liquor Accord chairman Danny Blair said the union was trying to drive a wedge between the Government and stakeholders.

"Some venues in the Valley are open as little as 16 hours a week, so a reduction in their trading hours across the board is a nonsense," Mr Blair said.

Published in the Courier Mail on 21 June.

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/queensland-nightclub-locko...