Alcohol at Fundraising Events: South Australian Rules

Organising a non-profit fundraising event in South Australia that includes the sale or supply of alcohol requires adherence to specific regulations to ensure legal compliance and the safety of all attendees. Here's a concise guide to help you navigate the necessary steps:

1. Determine the Need for a Short-Term Liquor Licence

• Sale or Supply of Alcohol: If your event involves selling or supplying alcohol for commercial or financial benefit, or if it's held on regulated premises, you must obtain a short-term liquor licence.

  sa.gov.au

• Private Events Without Financial Gain: For private events on non-regulated premises where alcohol is supplied without any commercial benefit (e.g., a private party where alcohol is provided free of charge), a liquor licence is not required.

  sa.gov.au

2. Types of Short-Term Liquor Licences

Short-term liquor licences in South Australia are categorised based on the nature and scale of the event:

• Class 1: Single-day events concluding by midnight, with no more than 200 attendees at any one time, and without prescribed entertainment.

• Class 2: Events lasting one or more days, concluding by 2:00 am, with no more than 1,200 attendees at any one time, and without prescribed entertainment.

• Class 3: Events of any duration, with more than 1,200 attendees or featuring prescribed entertainment. These events can operate beyond 2:00 am, subject to approval.

3. Application Process

• Lead Time: Submit your application at least 14 days before small events and at least 60 days before large events. Late applications may attract additional fees and there's no guarantee of approval.

• Documentation: You may need to provide details such as council consent, landlord approval, local police views, a sketch plan of the event area, number of toilets, type of entertainment, public liability insurance details, and information about licensed security personnel.

  Apply here

4. Fees and Exemptions

• Application Fees: Fees vary based on the event's size and the organising entity. Charitable and community events may be eligible for fee waivers.

5. Compliance and Best Practices

• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA): Ensure all staff and volunteers involved in serving alcohol hold current RSA certification.

• Minors: Implement strict measures to prevent the sale or supply of alcohol to individuals under 18 years of age.

• Safety Measures: Develop and enforce strategies to manage patron behaviour, prevent intoxication, and ensure safe transportation options are available post-event.

For comprehensive information and to access application forms, visit the Consumer and Business Services (CBS) website.

By diligently following these guidelines, your non-profit organisation can host a successful and compliant fundraising event that includes the responsible service of alcohol.