Liquor legislation

​​​​Changes to the Liquor Licensi​ng​​ Act 1990​ and regulations commenced on 1 September 2016. 

For additional information, refer to the Overview of changes to the liquor licensing legislation.

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Liquor Licensing Act 1990

The Liquor Licensi​ng​​ Act 1990​​​ regulates the sale, supply, promotion and consumption of ​liquor in Tasmania. It has a strong harm minimisation focus, its object being to regulate these activities so as to:​
  • minimise harm arising from the misuse of liquor; and​
  • facilitate the responsible development of the liquor and hospitality industries in a way that is consistent with the best interests of the community.
​The Commissioner for Licensing and the Tasmanian Liquor and Gaming Commission are established as the key decision making bodies.

The Act prohibits:​
  • the sale of liquor except as authorised by a licence, permit or general liquor exemption and prescribes certain qualifications and best interests of the community considerations before an authority to sell liquor may be granted;
  • the sale of liquor to young people and to intoxicated people; and
  • granting a licence in connection with the activities of a supermarket.
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Other key provisions include:
  • the Commissioner has the ability to prohibit or restrict the advertising or promotion of liquor;
  • the Minister has the ability to prohibit the sale of undesirable liquor products;
  • Tasmania Police, licensees and permit holders are able to issue barring orders to patrons if their behaviour warrants;
  • minimum age requirements to sell or serve liquor;
  • requirements for the sale of liquor through the Internet or by other communication media; and
  • requirements for certain licensees to provide wholesale liquor supply information if requested by the Minister.

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