Western Australia is set to overhaul its Good Friday alcohol restrictions, with Racing and Gaming Minister Reece Whitby labelling the current rules an 'archaic relic of the past'. Under existing laws, hotels, taverns and wineries can only serve alcohol between noon and 10pm, and only with a meal.
Mr Whitby said the rules are under review as part of a broader examination of the state's Liquor Act. 'We want to eliminate red tape and reflect community expectations,' he said, adding that the ability for cellar doors to open on Good Friday is 'worth looking at'. Public consultation on the reforms closed in January, with legislation expected to be drafted early next year.
Margaret River Wine Association chief executive Amanda Whiteland said relaxing the rules would allow businesses to capitalise on the Easter tourist influx. 'There are a lot of visitors in the region. It's a really busy time of year and a lot of cellar doors would love the opportunity to host visitors,' she said.
For Busselton's Shelter Brewery, the restrictions make it more economical to close for the day. General manager Paul Maley said the meal requirement and ban on takeaway alcohol are impractical. 'It's the only other day outside Christmas Day that we close,' he said, noting that many visitors would be disappointed.
Monash University constitutional law professor Luke Beck said the laws date back to the colonial period, from the 1880s to early 1900s, when religious and women's groups pushed for restrictions. Women's groups argued alcohol contributed to domestic violence, while religious groups wanted to ensure rest on Sundays.
