NSW councils would back any plans to restrict trading hours to prevent alcohol-related violence, the Local Government and Shires Association (LGSA) has said.

The LGSA said that the State Government should consider restricting trading hours in pubs and clubs, including lockouts and prohibition of various drinks.

"Alcohol related violence in the community is a huge problem, and something needs to be done about it," said President of the Local Government Association, Cr Genia McCaffery.
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"Police, emergency service workers and even council rangers are there to protect the community and should not be subject to assaults under any circumstances.

"The system has worked well in Newcastle, so why not consider extending it to other larger metropolitan cities?

Cr McCaffery said restrictions might help curb binge drinking, which has become a “massive problem, especially among our young people."

She said the role played by councils in addressing alcohol-related behaviour is crucial.

"Councils are committed to reducing the amount of alcohol related violence in the community and will continue developing innovative programs to help educate residents about the dangers of excessive drinking.

"We are happy to collaborate with the State Government to ensure any proposed changes to alcohol licensing are made in the best interest of our communities."

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