ID scanning law Queensland: Brisbane’s reputation damaged, says Lord Mayor

BRISBANE Lord Mayor Graham Quirk says ID scanning measures at nightspots are damaging the city’s international reputation and should be overhauled.

The ID scanning laws are aimed at reducing alcohol-fuelled violence in party precincts such as Fortitude Valley. Picture: Mark Calleja/AAP

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BRISBANE Lord Mayor Graham Quirk says ID scanning measures at nightspots are damaging the city’s international reputation and should be overhauled.

The Queensland capital is positioning itself as a 24/7 destination to tourist with developments such as the $3 billion Queen’s Wharf integrated resort-casino and, potentially, the $2 billion Brisbane Live arena and entertainment precinct over the next few years.

But Cr Quirk said the new ID scanner laws introduced in July were undermining that image.

“Some local businesses are closing their doors earlier, which is damaging to the night-time economy and doesn’t help Brisbane’s ‘new world city’ image,’’ he said.

Recent examples of age pensioners and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark being turned away from bars “show the issue has gone from the sublime to the ridiculous”, he said.

“These laws are a matter for the State Government but it really needs to rethink the laws and how they are to be implemented,” Cr Quirk said.

“Council supports a review into the current laws to establish a better system that will balance a safe night out with a vibrant night-life that supports local jobs so we can promote Brisbane’s world-class dining and entertainment scene.”

IDs are scanned at the entrance to a Fortitude Valley nightclub. Picture: Mark Calleja/AAP

Repealing the ID laws to enhance the city’s appeal as a modern international centre was one of the 22 action points to emerge from The Courier-Mail’s Future Brisbane series

Economist Gene Tunny said the “draconian’’ rules at bars and nightclubs make us appear backward and unfriendly’ to foreign visitors.

The State Opposition also wants them changed.

“The LNP successfully opposed Labor’s lockout laws and has consistently highlighted the Palaszczuk Government’s bungled implementation of ID scanners,’’ a party spokesman said.

“We will work with stakeholders to get the balance right and end the ‘nanny state’.

“Commonsense solutions are needed to ensure Queenslanders and visitors to our vibrant nightspots enjoy a safe night out.’’

But the Government has categorically ruled out revisiting the rules, saying they were already proving their worth with more than 90 people on banning orders – including drugs and other serious offences – from gaining entry to pubs and clubs.

“These laws were introduced following fatalities and serious injury due to alcohol-fuelled violence,’’ a spokesman said.

Because casinos are covered by specific laws, the Queen’s Wharf resort would be exempt from ID scanning under current rules.