Liquor Outlet Regulation

Reverend the Hon. Dr GORDON MOYES: I ask the Minister for Roads, representing the Minister for Police, a question without notice. Is the Minister aware that the dramatic increase in the number and variety of venues selling alcohol will increase the burden on the State's police service in monitoring alcohol-related assaults, under-age drinking, antisocial behaviour and family violence? Is the Minister aware that a recent report conducted by the New South Wales Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research states:

Between 1997 and 2007 New South Wales clubs experienced a fall in the proportion of assaults on licensed premises in NSW from 25% to just 18%? Meanwhile, hotels have increased over that time to 70% of all assaults on licensed premises. Nightclubs still recorded nearly five assaults per venue.

Can the Minister indicate the measures that will be implemented to clamp down on violence, under-age drinking and increased hospitalisations due to the impact of the proliferation of liquor outlets in New South Wales?

The Hon. ERIC ROOZENDAAL: I will refer the member's question to the Minister for Police for an appropriate response.