Bans for unruly drinkers welcomed by Tasmanian Hospitality Association

New laws which allow police or liquor licensees to bar unruly patrons for up to six months have been welcomed by the Tasmanian Hospitality Association (THA).

The Liquor Licensing Amendment bill has now passed both houses of Parliament.

The State Government said the laws, introduced in September, were aimed at supporting the growth of the hospitality sector which is the state's fifth largest employer with nearly 20,000 workers.

It means police and business owners can issue drunk patrons who are "causing trouble" with bans ranging from 24 hours to six months.

Police will also have the power to ban people from multiple venues or entire precincts, including the Hobart waterfront.

THA general manager Steve Old said it was a win for patrons.

"They know that when they go into a licensed venue they're in the safest spot possible to drink and socialise," he said.

"It means that we can start to deal with those minority of people that want to go out and cause trouble in and around venues.

"They can now be dealt with if the need arises."

The amendment also allows restrictions on irresponsible advertising and promotion of alcohol in venues and a more transparent licensing permit process.

Mr Old said he expected the changes to have a positive impact on the industry.

"We're comfortable that there's been a thorough process that we've gone through with the Treasurer [and] all parties have had a great opportunity to discuss what they'd like to see in the act," he said.

"It's a welcome change from our point of view and everyone should be happy about the outcome."

Source: ABC News, 20^th November 2015
Originally published as: Bans for unruly drinkers welcomed by Tasmanian Hospitality Association