According to data from BOCSAR (The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research), assault rates in licensed premises on the New South Wales Central Coast have more than halved since 2008, a result the AHA NSW accredits to the efforts by hoteliers, police and local community.
In the Gosford Local Government Area (LGA), assaults are down by 50.6 per cent from 2008 figures, and are at their lowest since 1995, similar results were acheived in Wyong LGA, with assault rates in licensed premises down 49.3 per cent since 2008.
According to the AHA NSW, assaults in pubs and clubs have dropped 32 per cent in the last year alone. The communal rule ‘barred from one, barred from all’ has been a major contributor in this.
John Green, director of liquor and policing for AHA NSW explained,
“This strategy sees patrons committing violence, barred from all participating premises in the liquor accord,” said Green.
“Rather than shutting venues earlier or locking out law abiding patrons, this strategy targets anti-social people. It also sends a strong message to everyone that your own behaviour and that of your mates is what allows you to enter venues. Abuse that and you can spend time on the sidelines.”
Sadly drug use has climbed during this period as alcohol misuse drops. As servers of alcohol, we also have a role to play in ensuring alcohol is sold and consumed responsibly. In order to understand our responsibilities when serving alcohol, we should complete Responsible Service of Alcohol training, this is a mandatory federal requirement.
Whether you’re an experienced barperson or someone looking to start out in hospitality, this industry is lucrative and attractive because you don’t need alot of experience to find work. If you want to work while you study or look for a full time career, there are opportunities for everyone.
Before you look for work in a licensed venue in any state or territory, you will need to complete RSA training, this includes bartenders, waitrons, security staff, managers etc.
This mandatory requirement is aimed at minimising the negative impact of alcohol misuse on society and when combined with the measures mentioned above, have yieled positive results.
As a server of alcohol its important to keep in mind the consequences of irresponsible drinking including car crashes due to drink driving, hospital admissions due to alcohol violence and the long term effects of alcohol on the health of drinkers, as well as alcohol fuelled assaults and brawls which have declined but is still a concern.