Cessnock City Liquor Accord Launches Multi-Venue Barring System
The Cessnock City Liquor Accord has officially launched its new Multi-Venue Barring System (MVBS) — a coordinated initiative designed to enhance safety, reduce alcohol-related violence, and promote responsible behaviour across licensed venues throughout the Cessnock Local Government Area.
Under the MVBS, local licensees work together through the Accord to apply a shared barring system. When a patron engages in serious or repeated anti-social or violent behaviour, they may be barred not just from a single venue but from all participating on-premise venues within the Cessnock Liquor Accord area for a specified period.
A Collaborative Approach to Safer Hospitality
The system reflects the Accord’s commitment to ensuring that local venues remain safe, welcoming, and community-focused. It empowers licensees to take a unified stance on unacceptable behaviour, creating stronger deterrence and consistency in how such incidents are managed.
“This initiative represents a major step forward in creating safer social spaces for our patrons and staff,” said Cessnock City Liquor Accord President, Paul Cousins. “By working together, venues can ensure that individuals who repeatedly cause harm or disruption are held accountable — and that good patrons can enjoy our venues without concern.”
How the MVBS Works
When an incident occurs that breaches accepted behavioural standards, a venue can submit an MVBS Incident Report to the Accord’s committee.
The Cessnock City Liquor Accord reviews the report, conducts a hearing, and determines whether a multi-venue ban should be imposed.
Patrons subject to a proposed ban are notified and have the right to respond or appeal the Accord’s decision.
Decisions are communicated to Cessnock Police Licensing Officers and published via the Accord’s internal register.
Clear and Consistent Penalties
The MVBS includes comprehensive Sentencing Guidelines to ensure fairness and consistency. Offences such as refusing to leave a venue, physical assault, drug possession or supply, and repeated disorderly conduct carry escalating barring periods — from three months for minor breaches to up to five years for the most serious offences, including violent conduct or drug supply.
For example:
Refusal to Quit – up to one year if police intervention is required.
Malicious Damage – up to two years, depending on severity.
Physical Assault or Violent Behaviour – one to five years depending on injury and circumstances.
Illicit Substances (Drugs) – up to five years for supply offences.
Information for Patrons and Venues
All participating venues will display MVBS signage to inform patrons of the system and its consequences. Licensees are also responsible for ensuring staff are trained and aware of the MVBS process and enforcement requirements.
The Accord encourages all patrons to enjoy local venues responsibly and to treat staff and fellow guests with respect. Those who do will always be welcome; those who don’t may face exclusion from every venue in the district.
Building a Safer, Stronger Cessnock
The introduction of the MVBS is part of the Accord’s broader effort to reduce alcohol-related harm and support the continued growth of Cessnock’s vibrant hospitality scene. By uniting venues, police, and community stakeholders, the Accord aims to make the local area a model of cooperation and responsible service.
For more information on the Multi-Venue Barring System or to become a member of the Cessnock City Liquor Accord, visit
www.CessnockCityLiquorAccord.com.au
