 | Licensed premises including nightclubs have agreed to provide patrons free or low-cost drinking water, the Health Minister, Bronwyn Pike announced today.
Ms Pike said the industry, key stakeholders and the Bracks Government had developed a set of guidelines to make drinking water accessible to more patrons.
Ms Pike said the need for guidelines was highlighted following reports some Melbourne nightclubs were selling bottled water at inflated prices and in some cases, shutting off the cold water in the toilets and bathrooms.
"These actions have little regard for the health or safety of customers," Ms Pike said.
"Licensed premises, especially nightclubs and dance venues, have an obligation to make drinking water readily available to patrons. This also applies to large outdoor events such as rock concerts and sporting events.
"Every person who goes to a nightclub or large gathering has an expectation he or she will be able to obtain water quickly and easily.
"We are encouraging licensed premises to have free drinking water available to patrons at all times, on any premises where liquor is sold or supplied.
"When free water is not feasible, drinking water should be available for less than the lowest price at which any alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink is sold on the premises.
"Licensed premises have also agreed to ensure cold water is available in bathroom and toilet taps."
Ms Pike said the guidelines were drawn up in consultation with industry and other stakeholders, to ensure maximum compliance with minimum disruption.
"The Department of Human Services, Liquor Licensing Victoria, the Victoria Police and representatives from the industry including the Australian Hotels Association and the Nightclub Owners Association were involved in developing the guidelines," Ms Pike said.
"Many licensed venues were already behaving responsibly, but the guidelines will give those currently not doing the right thing a simple framework to assist them to provide a safer environment for patrons.
"If you have been drinking heavily or dancing for long periods of time, it is important to constantly replenish body fluids."
Ms Pike said she was pleased the industry supported the guidelines.
"While there is widespread support for these guidelines the Government will assess compliance and if they aren't working we will consider introducing legislation to make the provision of free or low-cost drinking water compulsory," she said.
People who attend a licensed venue which is not complying with the guidelines can report them by calling the 24-hour alcohol and drug service DirectLine on 1800 888 236. Calls will be followed-up to ensure the venue is aware of its responsibilities.
A copy of the guidelines is attached.
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