The incident has drawn attention to the responsibilities of licensed venues, as highlighted by Dimitri Argeres, Director of Regulatory Operations at Liquor and Gaming NSW. Argeres expressed concern over the actions of the venue’s staff, which posed a grave safety risk to the patron and underscored the licensee’s responsibility.

“It’s crucial for licensees and venue managers to ensure their staff are adequately trained and that clear procedures are in place to guarantee the responsible service of alcohol,” Argeres emphasized. “A licensee is accountable for the safe operation of their venue, even in their absence.”

Argeres further noted the legal implications, stressing, “Beyond breaking the law, the actions of the hotel staff in this instance endangered the patron, resulting in serious injury. This case serves as a reminder that venues neglecting their Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) obligations can expect to be identified and face severe repercussions.”

“Licensees must ensure their venue operates safely, even when they are not present.

“Apart from breaking the law, the actions of hotel staff in this instance put the patron at risk of significant harm, which led to serious injury.

“As this case shows, venues that fail to abide by RSA requirements can expect to be caught and face significant consequences.”

The licensee has had their license revoked for one year.

The hotel’s liquor license has been transferred to a new licensee since the incident.