CAFES, pubs and restaurants wanting to serve alcohol could soon face less red tape under changes announced by the Victorian Government.
Hospitality businesses currently require both a liquor licence from the Victorian Liquor Commission and a planning permit from their local council to serve alcohol for consumption.
Premier Jacinta Allan announced the planning-permit requirement would be abolished by July 1 next year.
A statement from her office said protections on amenity, noise and operating hours would remain in place, while zoning and planning-permit requirements would continue to determine where restaurants and pubs could open their doors.
According to the statement, the reform could enable businesses to open up to six months earlier and represent a $7000 saving.
“We want to see more bars, restaurants and pubs open their doors, and we’re going to help them do it sooner,” Ms Allan said.
Small Business Minister Natalie Suleyman said it would save “time and money for hard-working business owners”.
