Licensing NT newsletter: April 2025

Licensing NT has commenced work on an education framework designed to support liquor licensees across the Northern Territory. This initiative aims to equip industry professionals with the knowledge and resources necessary to operate responsibly and in compliance with the law prior to them taking on their roles.

As part of this framework, Licensing NT is developing a range of online educational resources, including an RSA Bridging Course and a ‘Managing a Licensed Venue’ course. These tools will be instrumental in ensuring that new and existing licensees and nominees fully understand their responsibilities and are well-prepared for their roles within the liquor industry.

To support this effort, Licensing NT is seeking industry feedback on the first resource to be released on the Liquor and Hospitality website, the Guide to Managing a Licensing Premises.

Industry members are encouraged to review the guide and provide feedback via Have Your Say. Your input is invaluable in shaping resources that reflect the needs and expectations of industry.

Further consultation will take place as additional materials are developed, ensuring that all resources are practical, relevant, and aligned with industry requirements. Licensing NT appreciates the engagement and cooperation of licensees and stakeholders in this process and looks forward to working together to enhance industry education and compliance.

The feedback survey can be accessed through Have Your Say.

On the 28^th of February 2025, the Administrator of the Northern Territory amended the Liquor Regulations 2019 to extend the moratorium of the takeaway authority until 2026.

This means that no new takeaway licences will be issued and applications for takeaway authorities are not being accepted. Only businesses that already possess this authority can trade under it.

As the Northern Territory transitions into the dry season, Licensing NT is preparing for another extensive round of remote compliance audits. These audits are a crucial part of our commitment to upholding regulatory standards, ensuring that licensed venues across the Territory operate safely and in accordance with the law.

Throughout this period, our inspectors will be traveling to remote communities, engaging directly with licensees and stakeholders to provide guidance, assess compliance, and support best practices within the industry. These visits not only help maintain high operational standards but also foster strong working relationships between Licensing NT and local businesses.

Licensing NT greatly appreciates the ongoing cooperation of licensees and stakeholders in facilitating these audits. Effective planning and open communication are key to ensuring meaningful engagement and a smooth compliance process.

We remain committed to working collaboratively with the industry across the Northern Territory to promote a safe and responsible operating environment. As always, we look forward to strengthening our partnerships and supporting businesses in meeting their regulatory obligations with minimal interference to practices.

For more information or assistance, please contact Licensing NT.

Licensing NT is issuing a firm reminder to all liquor licensees that overdue annual fees are now a compliance issue and will be actively enforced by the Liquor Compliance Team.

Failure to pay outstanding fees may result in the suspension of liquor licences, restricting businesses from selling or supplying alcohol until full payment is received. Licensees are urged to take immediate action to prevent potential disruptions to their operations and avoid further enforcement measures.

The fees can be paid by following the payment instructions provided on the annual fee notice. If assistance is required, businesses are encouraged to contact Licensing NT as soon as possible.

Event organisers planning to apply for a liquor licence with a major event authority or special event authority are reminded to submit their applications well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing.

The time required to assess and approve a liquor licence application depends on several factors, including but not limited to:

• the complexity and scale of the event
• whether the application is for a major event or special event authority
• the requirement to advertise for major event authorities
• the need to address public complaints
• addressing additional regulatory or stakeholder requirements.

Given these considerations, Licensing NT recommends the following minimum application timeframes:

• Special Event Authority: Submit at least one month before the event.
• Major Event Authority: Submit at least 3 months in advance for new liquor licences. Standing liquor licences for recurring major events may be processed in a shorter timeframe, provided there were no compliance issues at previous events and no objections arise during the advertising period.

Late applications submitted within 30 days of the date that the licence is required will incur an application fee of $585.

To avoid unnecessary delays or additional costs, applicants should plan ahead and ensure all required documentation is provided as early as possible. Licensing NT is committed to supporting event organisers through the application process and ensuring the safe and responsible service of alcohol at events across the Northern Territory.

Applicants can ensure a smooth and timely process by submitting their gaming machine manager licence application through the online user portal. The portal allows for faster processing and direct submission to the Gaming Team.

Processing time varies depending on the completeness of the application and the submission method used. Completed applications, submitted with all supporting documents and payment can be processed in under 5 business days.

The online portal applications offer the fastest turnaround, as the application goes straight to the Gaming Team. Alternative submission methods such as the Territory Business Centre (TBC) may take a further one to two business days before your application is received by the Gaming Team.

Many applicants may experience delays due to common oversights. To ensure your application moves forward without unnecessary holdups, avoid the following:

• Missing or incomplete documentation – All supporting documents must be provided at the time of submission. Incomplete applications cannot be processed until all necessary documents are received.
• Incorrect licence type selection – Make sure you're applying for the correct licence, whether it’s for a Machine Manager or Machine Repairer.

If you have any questions or need guidance regarding the application process, reach out to the Gaming Team at gamingmachineact@nt.gov.au. They can provide clarification on requirements, provide updates, and address other concerns.