NOOSA JUNCTION PRECINCT MANAGEMENT MODELS ASSESSMENT · Report

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING                                                8 JULY 2025


each model to inform future strategic planning and decision-making. A comparison table
summarising these options is provided in Attachment 1.

The investigation into potential precinct models involved the following steps:
   1. Legislative Review - Analysis of relevant legislation including the Local Government Act
      2009, Liquor Act 1992, and Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence Legislation Amendment Act
      2016 to determine statutory requirements and implications for Council.
   2. Case Study Analysis - Review of existing precincts across Queensland (e.g., Nambour SEP,
      Fortitude Valley SNP) and Australia (Sydney Waterfront BID) to identify best practices,
      operational models, and outcomes relevant to Noosa Junction.
   3. A brief Feasibility Assessment- Evaluation of each model’s suitability for Noosa Junction,
      considering local context, regulatory burden, funding availability, and community impact.
   4. Cost and Resource Implications - Estimation of financial and staffing requirements
      associated with each option, including potential funding sources and governance structures.
   5. Comparative Analysis - A comparison table (Attachment 1) has been developed to
      summarise the key attributes, benefits, and limitations of each model to support informed
      decision-making.

Special Entertainment Precinct
Under the Local Government Act 2009, a council may formally designate a Special Entertainment
Precinct (SEP) within its jurisdiction. This designation enables entertainment venues within the
precinct to be exempt from the amplified music noise provisions of the Liquor Act 1992, transferring
regulatory responsibility for amplified music noise emissions to council. It is important to note that
venues must still comply with all other requirements associated with obtaining and maintaining a
liquor licence.

To establish a SEP, council must undertake two key actions:
   •   Amend Noosa Plan 2020 to identify the SEP and incorporate any specific provisions relevant
       to its operation.
   •   Enact a new Local Law to regulate noise from amplified music within the precinct. This law
       generally includes a permit system for venues, which typically involves an annual licensing
       fee.
This framework could provide council with greater flexibility to support live music and entertainment
in the Junction, while managing potential land use conflicts in a locally responsive manner. However,
this framework shifts all the regulatory responsibility to Council from State Government and has
significant resource implications as described in Attachment 1.

Safe Night Precinct
Safe Night Precincts (SNPs) are designated areas established under the Liquor Act 1992 and
the Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence Legislation Amendment Act 2016 as part of the Queensland
Government’s broader strategy to reduce alcohol-related harm in key entertainment districts. These
precincts—located in areas such as Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast—aim to promote responsible
consumption of alcohol, reduce late-night violence, and enhance public safety in and around licensed
venues.

Key features of SNPs include:
   •   Ministerial Oversight: The Minister for Liquor Regulation is responsible for recommending the
       establishment of SNPs and appointing the corresponding local board. Each SNP is subject
       to a formal review every three years to assess its effectiveness and determine whether
       adjustments are required