Liquor Licence Applications & Variations

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.

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: authorises the supply of liquor for consumption on or off a licensed premises during ordinary trading hours, and at any other time where determined by the Commission and specified in the licence.
• On-Premises Licence: authorises the supply of liquor on the licensed premises only, during ordinary trading hours, and at other times if determined by the Commission and specified in the licence.
• Restaurant and Café Licence: a category for restaurants and cafes that satisfy the ‘predominant activity’ test. The predominant activity on the licensed premises at all times must be the preparation and serving of meals. Seating and tables must be available for 75% of the patrons at all times.
• Packaged Liquor Licence: covers retail businesses selling packaged liquor, such as bottles, cans, or cartons for off-site consumption. Must meet the ‘predominant activity test’ that the licensed premises must predominantly be for the retail sale of liquor for consumption off the premises.
• Club Licence: a full club licence allows the sale of liquor to members for consumption on and off the licensed premises in accordance with club rules. Sales of liquor to a member’s guest must be consumed on the premises. A restricted club licence only allows sale of liquor to a guest or a member for consumption on the premises.
• Late–Night Licence: allows the supply of liquor beyond the 1 am limit generally imposed by other licence types. Automatically also authorises supply in ordinary trading hours.
• Pre-retail Licence: for wholesalers, importers, producers and brewers. Licensees may only supply liquor to other licensees. Does not require the premises to be licensed.
• Major Event Licence: allows a licensee to supply liquor for a major event.
• Limited Licence: for specific events or short-term activities (like festivals, private functions, or special occasions), this licence is normally time-limited and event-specific. The scale and scope of the supply must be limited in nature.
• BYO Permit: allows liquor to be consumed and possessed on a premises, but does not authorise the sale of liquor by the permittee.

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

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.