Liquor Use Policy
Responsible officer: Vice-Chancellor
Designated officer: Chief Financial Officer
Council approval: C05/31, 7 June 2005
Last amended: 21 June 2006 (Vice-Chancellor)
Related policies:
Overview
The University has a commitment to prevent the inappropriate use of liquor and its harm to individuals, property and the standing of the University in the community.
Unlawful, inappropriate and irresponsible use of liquor can have a negative impact on judgment, academic performance, health, personal relationships and safety, can cause damage to property and equipment and can adversely affect the rights, comfort and enjoyment of individuals.
This Policy applies to staff, students and visitors to the University who are involved in activities conducted on University premises or under the auspices of the University.
1. Policy objectives
The objectives of the policy are to:
- promote moderation in a responsible attitude towards the use of liquor
- contribute to the provision of a workplace and learning environment free from liquor related harm
2. Definitions
Liquor means any spirituous or fermented fluid of an intoxicating nature, and includes any beverage or substance intended for human consumption in which the level of ethyl alcohol (ethanol) is greater than 5 mL/L (0.5 percent) at 20°C, but does not include liquor used merely as a preservative or medium in which fruit is offered for sale to the public in sealed containers if the contents are visible.
Authorised person means an authorised person within the meaning of the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998 ("the Act").
Security officer means an authorised person, clearly identified as a security officer.
Staff means employees of the University.
Student means a person who is enrolled in a program or course of the University.
Supervisor means a person who directs or oversees a person, group, department, organisation, or operation.
University premises means buildings and like structures, land and vehicles which are under the control and management of the University and which are used for, or in connection with, the purposes of the University.
Vice-Chancellor means the Vice-Chancellor within the meaning of the Act.
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3. Policy
3.1 Staff, students and other workers on University sites should not be affected by liquor while conducting University business.
3.2 University personnel, students and visitors to University premises must observe local, state and federal laws in relation to using, possessing, giving or selling liquor.
3.3 Managers and supervisors are responsible for ensuring that staff and any students under their direct control comply with the Liquor Use Policy.
3.4 Staff and students should be aware of potential consequences of non-compliance with the Liquor Use Policy. These may include counselling, voluntary participation in education or treatment programs, suspension, dismissal, official warning, caution, referral to police, reimbursement for damage and a formal apology. In addition staff, students and visitors to the University have a legislative obligation under the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 to comply with instructions given regarding health and safety and not to place at risk the health and safety of any person. Compliance with the provisions of the Liquor Use Policy by all parties will ensure that their workplace health and safety obligations in relation to use of liquor are met. Failure to comply with the requirements of this policy may result in a legal penalty.
3.5 While recognising the right-of-choice of individuals in relation to liquor use, the University will intervene when liquor related behaviour causes harm, or has the potential to cause harm to individuals, property or the operation and reputation of the University.
3.6 The written permission of the Vice-Chancellor is required before a function involving the consumption of liquor is held on any University site except licensed premises. The Director of Capital Programs and Operations has delegated authority to give such permission where the application for the use of liquor is in accord with the University's policy.
3.7 The provisions of the Liquor Act 1992 apply on University sites as they do elsewhere. It is therefore illegal to sell liquor on University sites, either directly or indirectly, such as through an admission charge or sale of tickets to a function, unless a licence or permit has been obtained from the Liquor Licensing Division.
3.8 Prior approval of the University is required before any application is made for a general-purpose permit, or for any variation in the terms of an existing licence or permit such as the extension of normal trading hours on licensed premises.
3.9 The Liquor Licensing Division will not grant licenses or permits applicable to University sites unless the applicant has obtained the prior approval of the University. Licences or permits must be prominently displayed at function venues.
3.10 A function requires a general purpose permit if the organisers want to sell liquor either directly or indirectly. 'Indirectly' includes sale through an admission charge or the sale of tickets to a function.
4. University-related events
4.1 Outside groups using University facilities must comply with University policies and rules. Organisations and groups sponsoring an approved event must adhere to the Conditions of Hire outlined in the Application to Hire form.
4.2 Groups who display, or who do not act to limit, irresponsible conduct or who violate the University Liquor Use Policy will risk withdrawal of University support and recognition and future access to University facilities.
5. Education and information
5.1 Staff and students will be informed of the policy and related procedures by appropriate means.
5.2 Persons or organisations responsible for guests, workers, participants in events on University premises or others on University business, must ensure that such individuals or groups are informed of the Liquor Use Policy.
Note
The sale, consumption, and/or supply of liquor on University premises or at events conducted on behalf of or in conjunction with the University must be done in accordance with the Liquor Act Queensland, The University of the Sunshine Coast Liquor Use Policy, The University the Sunshine Coast Hire of University Facilities Policy and, where necessary as detailed previously, have the approval of the Director, Capital Programs and Operations or delegate. It is an offence under the Liquor Act 1992 to sell liquor to, supply liquor to, allow liquor to be supplied to or consumed by a person who is under 18 years of age, or who is intoxicated or disorderly.
The University of the Sunshine Coast acknowledges the University of Queensland's "2.30.17 - Alcohol Policy" in preparing this Policy.
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