The SA government today announced it will amend the licensing laws around the sale of alcohol, allowing the state’s bars, cafes, restaurants and pubs to sell alcohol to takeaway or deliver to customer’s homes from Thursday March 26.
The move follows restrictions put in place on Monday shutting down all “non-essential” businesses and services across the country, as part of measures to contain the spread of coronavirus.
“Our hospitality sector is an important part of our economy, and we appreciate there are many in the sector who are struggling as a result of circumstances that are clearly beyond their control,” Attorney-General Vickie Chapman said in a statement.
From tomorrow, liquor licence holders operating a small bar, cafe or restaurant will be able to apply for a free short-term and temporary licence enabling them to sell a small amount of liquor along with any takeaway meals ordered.
Purchases will be limited to two bottles of wine or one bottle of wine and a six pack of beer, cider or pre-mixed spirits.
Community clubs will also be able to sell liquor for takeaway to club members and to any member of the public purchasing a takeaway meal (but this will be limited to two bottles of wine or one bottle of wine and a six pack of beer, cider or pre-mixed spirits).
“These extensions should help businesses to continue to operate during this challenging time,” Chapman said. “These temporary measures will be in place for the same period that the Emergency Management Act and Public Health Acts are being utilised in this unprecedented pandemic.
“We will continue to monitor the impact of these measures and work closely with key industry bodies to develop responses that both keep people safe and support our businesses in trying times. South Australian’s have utilised good common sense up until this point, and we hope this continues.”
Nido has already taken advantage of the rule changes. From today, the Hyde Park restaurant is selling wine (when accompanied by a food order).
"We have full intention to be here when all of this returns to some sort of ‘normal’," the team wrote in an email. "We look forward to being with you along the journey in the meantime."
