Hospitality: Is it time to review your RAMP?
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By: Curt Schatz, Esq.
Mullins Lawyers
Brisbane, Australia
Licensees would be aware of the requirement for licensed premises to lodge a Risk Assessed Management Plan (RAMP) with the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR).
It is important that licensees ensure that RAMPs are up-to-date and adhere to the OLGR’s requirements. This is particularly relevant if a RAMP was lodged a number of years ago as the OLGR is often changing and updating its list of issues which are to be addressed in a RAMP.
The purpose of a RAMP is to outline how a licensee will manage its premises in order to minimise harm caused by alcohol abuse and misuse. A RAMP will have to be provided when applying for a number of various liquor licences.
A RAMP will not be required when applying for subsidiary on-premises meals and cafe licences, provided the premises are low risk (meaning the premises are not open past midnight, do not hold an adult entertainment permit and are not in a restricted area).
There are a number of matters which must be addressed in a RAMP. These include the following:
The responses to each of the above matters must be of sufficient detail to satisfy the OLGR and to provide a basis for conditioning the operation of the liquor licence.
A RAMP must be approved by the OLGR and may be changed as long as any of the proposed amendments are lodged with the OLGR and approved by the Commissioner prior to taking effect.
The licensee or permit holder must notify the Commissioner of any change in proposed operating practices by lodging a new RAMP. Failure to advise the Commissioner of any changes may result in remedial action.
Should you require any further information in relation to or assistance in drafting and/or reviewing a RAMP, please contact Curt Schatz.
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