Drinking safely in Queensland venues

Let’s keep Queenslanders safe. Let’s stop alcohol-fuelled violence.

The Liquor Act 1992 aims to minimise the risk of alcohol-related harm. Some of the strategies to minimise harm are listed on this page.

ID scanning in licenced venues

Networked ID scanning is in operation at all venues in safe night precincts (SNPs) that trade past midnight on a permanent basis (unless they’re considered low-risk or otherwise exempt).

This means you’ll have your ID scanned each time you enter one of these venues.

ID scanners have been introduced to help ensure the safety of patrons by checking each person's ID against a database of banned individuals.

If you’re subject to a banning order, the venue is legally required to refuse you entry.

Your privacy and ID scanners

All venues operating ID scanners must comply with privacy obligations under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act).

An ID scanner will only capture your name, date of birth and photo.

You’re entitled to make a privacy complaint if venues don’t follow the rules.

Acceptable forms of ID

Your ID document must be current and include your photo and date of birth.

The following types of identification (ID) are accepted by ID scanners:

If you have recently renewed your Queensland driver licence but are still for it to arrive, you can show a Department of Transport and Main Roads driver licence renewal receipt and your expired licence.

Trading hours limits

A venue’s liquor licence determines when it must stop serving alcohol. Check the trading hours with the venue.

You’ll have 30 minutes after last drinks are called to finish your drink.

Safe night precinct trading hours

SNP venues can serve alcohol until 3am at the latest. However, up to 6 times a year, they can be approved to serve alcohol until 5am for special events.

Other licensed venues' trading hours

Venues outside SNPs can serve alcohol until 2am at the latest. However, up to 12 times a year, they can be approved to serve alcohol until 5am for special events.

Rapid intoxication drink service limits

All drinks that get you drunk quickly—such as shots, shooters and bombs—can only be served until midnight.

This includes:

  • drinks containing more than 45ml of alcohol
  • pre-mixed drinks containing more than 5% alcohol by volume and/or more than 2 standard drinks—they must be within both of these limits to be served after midnight,

Cocktails that aren’t designed for rapid consumption are exempt from this requirement, provided they’re listed on a cocktail menu with a set price.

Casinos and airports are exempt as they already have strict controls in place to address alcohol-related harm. The nature of their operations also differs to other venues.

Responsible service of alcohol

All staff of licensed premises in Queensland who serve or supply alcohol (regardless of their age) must have a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate.

Support services in SNPs

Access SNP support services if you need help.