Liquor Licence Applications & Variations

Liquor Licence Applications & Variations

Your liquor licensing experts in Victoria

Whether you’re starting a new business, transferring an existing licence, or looking to amend an existing licence, we offer comprehensive support throughout the entire process. Our experienced team can guide you through the steps, from completing application forms (which documents, plans and policies to include), to addressing compliance requirements and liaising with council, Liquor Control Victoria, Victoria Police and neighbours.

What type of licence do I need?

In Victoria, there are several types of liquor licences, each designed for specific types of businesses or events. Here are the main categories:

  • General Licence: This is for venues that operate as licensed premises, such as pubs, clubs, and hotels. It allows the sale and consumption of liquor on-site.
  • On-Premises Licence: This licence is for businesses where liquor is consumed on-site, such as restaurants, cafes, or bars. It permits the sale of liquor for consumption on the premises, typically with food.
  • Off-Premises Licence: This is issued to businesses like bottle shops or retail stores that sell liquor for consumption off the premises. It allows customers to purchase liquor to take away.
  • Packaged Liquor Licence: Similar to the off-premises licence, this specifically covers retail businesses selling packaged liquor, such as bottles, cans, or cartons for off-site consumption.
  • Club Licence: Issued to not-for-profit clubs, this licence allows the sale of liquor for consumption on-site. The club must be a members-only establishment or a community-based venue.
  • Limited Licence: Issued for specific events or short-term activities (like festivals, private functions, or special occasions), this licence is time-limited and event-specific.
  • Temporary Event Licence: This is for one-off events, like community festivals or concerts, allowing liquor to be sold and consumed during the event.

 

Each licence type has limitations, and the appropriate licence depends on the nature of the business.

Licence variations

If you’re seeking to modify an existing liquor licence—such as changing operating hours, altering the premises, or introducing new services—we can assist with managing the variation process efficiently and effectively including preparation of supporting management and policy documents for any significant changes to the licence.

Contact Terence O’Brien or Grace Madafferi of our Hospitality Law Team to discuss your application needs.

Testimonials

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Darren has an excellent team of friendly and accessible people who are both efficient and practical. I trust Darren and his team to deliver for my clients at the most crucial stage of their transaction.

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By having a Sanicki lawyer involved I feel peace of mind knowing the deal has every chance of coming to fruition. I can honestly say that Darren, along with his wonderful team, have saved deals for me on several occasions. Sanicki’s end to end service makes my business life much less stressful.

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The Sanicki Lawyers team make you feel so welcome, and explain fully costs and processes. It’s so comforting to be able to approach these guys and feel confident with what they do.

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Exceptional service from Sanicki Lawyers. I would never hesitate to recommend the team, and will certainly use their firm again for my business.

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Couldn’t have had a better experience. These guys are warm and efficient. Best!

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— Harry F

Sanicki Lawyers can assist with:

Licence applications for new businesses

Licence variations

Liaising with regulatory bodies

Addressing compliance requirements

Choosing the right type of licence

Enquire with our commercial litigation lawyers in Melbourne