You have one free articles for this month. Sign up for a CCIWA Membership for unlimited access.

Event planning in 2024: Is your business protected?

By CCIWA Editor 

As we move on from the Christmas and new year period, it’s an important time to consider planning for your 2024 events. 

It is crucial to safeguard your interests by having contracts in place and securing the necessary liquor licences. 

To help you stay legally compliant and protected during the festivities, CCIWA's Commercial Legal team has outlined some key considerations below. 

event plannerWhy do you need contracts in place? 

Although events are fun and fast-paced, unforeseen circumstances may arise. 

Having contracts in place can ensure each party understands their obligations such as insurance, payment, indemnitees and compliance with the law.  

For example, it is common for event organisers to allow food trucks and other contractors to sell food and beverages at their venues. In the unfortunate event that eventgoers suffer from contaminated food, who will be liable for compensation? 

A well-drafted written agreement between the event organiser and contractors can provide strong protection for your business.  

When do you need a liquor licence? 

If you are supplying liquor at your event, you may need a liquor licence. 

In WA, the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA) regulates the sale, supply and consumption of liquor. You are at risk of substantial fines without an appropriate liquor licence. There are eight different types of liquor licences available in WA.

An occasional liquor licence allows the sale and supply of liquor at one-off events. The timeframe required to lodge your application and the applicable fee payable depends on the estimated number of patrons, so it is important to seek help if you are unsure to prevent unnecessary delays. 

If you are in the habit of selling and supplying alcohol, it is advisable to ensure compliance with the conditions of your liquor licence and ensure that the license is renewed annually. If you are looking to extend the licence conditions you may be able to apply for an extended trading permit.

Please note, this article is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Readers are strongly advised to consult with our CCIWA Commercial Legal team for advice regarding their specific situations. 

Need help?

Our CCIWA Commercial Legal Team can help draft contracts tailored for your event. We can also advise on whether you need to apply for a liquor licence and can assist with the application process. Please contact our team at [email protected] or (08) 9365 7746.

As we move on from the Christmas and new year period, it’s an important time to consider planning for your 2024 events. 

It is crucial to safeguard your interests by having contracts in place and securing the necessary liquor licences. 

To help you stay legally compliant and protected during the festivities, CCIWA's Commercial Legal team has outlined some key considerations below. 

Tagged under:

You may also be interested in