The Queensland Government is seeking stakeholder comment on a new draft regulatory framework for online liquor sales and delivery in Queensland.

A media release from the Attorney-General and Minister for submissions noted that the state’s current legislation for liquor – the Liquor Act 1992 and also the Wine Industry Act 1994 – focuses on ‘bricks and mortar’ licensed premises, and does not provide explicit authorisations or harm-minimisation obligations in relation to online liquor sales for delivery.

The department is seeking the views of key industry, community, and government stakeholders on the potential benefits, costs, risks, issues and general impacts associated with the proposed regulatory framework.

The initial phase of consultation will be open until 10 May 2023 and will inform the policy development and recommendations on the new regulatory framework.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said the policy review is to address the risks associated with online sales.

“Research shows the dangers of ordering liquor online and having it delivered, and we want to address the high risks associated with these sales, including the potential supply of liquor to minors and unduly intoxicated people,” she said in the release.

“We know ordering liquor online and having it delivered offers customers greater convenience and provides commercial benefits for liquor retailers and delivery businesses, but we must ensure appropriate safeguards exist to ensure potential harm and violence is minimised.

“We have already seen New South Wales and Victoria implement new legislation to regulate the online sale and delivery of liquor and this issue requires our attention too.

“I encourage the liquor industry and community stakeholders to read the consultation paper and have their say, their views are valued and will contribute to ensuring we get this important reform right.”

Formal responses can be emailed to onlinesales@justice.qld.gov.au, or mailed to:

Online Liquor Sales and Delivery Framework
Office of Regulatory Policy
Department of Justice and Attorney-General
Locked Bag 180
City East QLD 4002