Alcohol, noise and ID

Alcohol - your rights and responsibilities

If you're over 18 and have the right proof of age (external link) then you are allowed to buy alcohol and attend licensed venues such as restaurants, pubs, bars or nightclubs.

However, it's illegal for you to give alcohol to, or buy alcohol on behalf of anyone under 18. If you do supply alcohol to someone under 18 then you risk an on-the-spot fine of over $700. If you're under 18 and you receive alcohol, you risk a fine of over $50.

If you're intoxicated, bar staff will refuse to sell you any more alcohol because it's actually illegal for them to serve someone who is intoxicated. Even if you're over 18, they still have the right to refuse you. It's also illegal for you to be drunk in a restaurant, pub, bar or nightclub, and you will be requested to leave the premises.

A zero blood alcohol limit applies to all Learner and Probationary licence holders and stiff penalties apply, not to mention the risk it carries of seriously injuring yourself and others.

Providing identification

It's your responsibility to carry the right kind of ID in order to purchase alcohol or be allowed into a licensed premises. Acceptable ID in Victoria includes:

• a Victorian proof of age card
• an Australian driver licence
• a Victorian learner permit
• a passport
• a Keypass card

If you intend to use a proof of age card in another state, you may wish to contact the appropriate licensing authorities to confirm that it is an accepted form of identification.

It's illegal to use false ID. If you use a false ID, you can be fined over $500. Bar staff, including bouncers can seize your ID if they have a reasonable belief that it's fake. They are then required by law to pass it on to police to investigate further.

Noise

If you're having a party or even if you're just hanging out in your accommodation with friends, it's important to know when you have to turn the music down.

Check the local noise restrictions before you let your hair down.

Related Links

Department of Justice - Young people and Victoria's liquor laws
Information and fact sheets about the liquor laws and how these relate to young people.

Department of Justice - On-the-spot fines
Details the minimum and maximum penalties for breaches of the Victorian Liquor Act.

Victoria Legal Aid - Police Powers - Your rights in Victoria (PDF)
A general guide to help you when you deal with the police. It includes specific information for people under the age of 17. This booklet is also published in Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Macedonian, Serbian, Turkish and Vietnamese.