By Denise Deason
A NEW police taskforce targeting alcohol-related violence at hotels and clubs may be operational in Werribee soon.
Acting Inspector Bill Weatherly says he will call in the squad if necessary.
He confirmed a trial was conducted in Wyndham this year when the squad was being formed.
The taskforce of 50 specially trained officers will have the power to ban troublemakers from entertainment venues for 24 hours. The officers will also have the power to close the doors of nightspots if they assess the public’s safety is at risk.
The taskforce, which will initially focus on the Melbourne CBD, is also designated for use in Werribee, Dandenong and Geelong.
The new police powers are part of a State Government package of laws scheduled to be introduced to Parliament this year.
“It’s another tool for the Wyndham police to use,” Acting Insp Weatherly said. “It’s smarter policing.”
The proposed new laws follow the killing of five men outside pubs and clubs in Melbourne in the past 18 months and an increase in street assaults.
The changes in the laws also include:
• The Liquor Licensing Director having greater power to vary trading hours and suspend a liquor licence.
• Enhancing the director’s ability to make late-hour entry declarations to enable lockouts.
• Holding associates of a licensee responsible for licensed venues.
• Requiring appropriate security for venues such as restaurants that also operate as a nightclub.
• Doubling the fine for serving alcohol to intoxicated people or allowing them entry to licensed premises to a maximum of $13,200.
• Doubling the penalty for serving alcohol without a licence to a maximum fine of $26,400 or two years’ jail.
