Settling up a liquor business in Australia is a dream for many entrepreneurs. After all, the alcohol consumption there is quite substantial and stable. Certain records report that in the past twelve months, 80.3% have consumed at least a full serving of liquor.
Additionally, a comparative study will validate that the increase in the number of users is quite paced, from 79.2% in 2019 to 80% in 2022-2023. Hence, this business arena offers more profitability than many other industrial sectors.
However, unlike other fields, you must acquire a liquor license to run your business legally. Are the figures intriguing you? If so, read this article carefully. Here, we will provide a comprehensive guide to getting a proper license. Scroll down for more information.
License Overview
The liquor license applies to multiple scenarios, such as conducting only takeaway liquor and liquor permits in hotels and caverns. A section of the license is also applicable for selling the product in liquor stores, small bars, etc. Additionally, the other categories of license include wholesaler producer, etc.
Each of these comes with a permitted trading hour that individuals must follow. If you are confused about the legalities of the license, immediately appoint a liquor license lawyer in Perth who can guide you through the complexities.
Who Can Apply
There are limitations to who can apply for the license. Before delving into the application process, let us take a quick look at candidates who are considered eligible. According to the Act,
- individual body
- corporate body
- unincorporated body
- Two or more of the bodies jointly applying
- These are the eligible candidates for the license. The Act clearly states that the permit must be applied by those conducting the process and abiding by the rules.
Who Cannot Apply
Section 34 of the Liquor Act prohibits some individuals from applying for a license. Take a quick look to decipher whether you fall into this category.
- The individual is bankrupt.
- They have given their estate to their creditors
- Unable to manage the business due to cognitive impairment
- Serving imprisonment
- Companies are under liquidation or receivership
- Holds a previously suspended or declined liquor license application
- The individual is still a minor
They are a state public servant (however, if they can prove to the licensing authority that the application will not hamper the applicant’s employment. You will still be able to apply). Seeking professional assistance from a License Agreement Lawyer can help you with the procedure.
Application Process
The application procedure is quite easy. The licensing might differ with the structure of your business. However, it mainly consists of five steps.
- Arrange the license application properly. You need to submit all documents with proper validations. Check out the comprehensive details here.
- Once all the documents are arranged, prepare for the submission. Firstly, you must have an online account. If it is not there, create an account to apply. You need to pay the application fee for the form to be submitted.
- The third step is approval. Your application will be critically scrutinized to ensure no violation of the law. Hence, make sure you are submitting all accurate and authentic documents.
- Sometimes, the application can be sent to the Liquor Commission for approval. In such cases, a document exchange session might be held. If you think adding more relevant documents will certify you as a legal applicant, provide all necessary information and await the determination.
- Once the application is approved, you must abide by a few rules and regulations. For instance, you are paying the required annual fees on time. Others include the presence of an approved manager for better supervision. The employed staff must also be properly trained for the Responsible Service of Alcohol.
Concept Of Exemption
There are some instances where you might not need a license. These are situations where a small amount of liquor is sold within controlled environments like social gatherings. However, there are other conditions they need to fulfill to trade the product legally.
Conclusion
Running a liquor business in Western Australia is a flourishing option. However, you must follow the rules critically to avoid legal allegations. Hence, hiring Business Settlement Lawyers in Perth, WA, who will provide professional guidance is always advisable.