Summary
Aim
To determine whether the provision of responsible service of alcohol (RSA) changed in NSW licensed premises between 2002 and 2011.
Method
A repeat cross-sectional telephone survey of young adults (n=2,503 in 2011, n=2,427 in 2006, n=1,090 in 2002).
Results
The percentage of respondents who reported showing at least one sign of intoxication at licensed premises decreased from 2006 to 2011 (from 56% to 51%). The overall provision of RSA to those who reported any signs of intoxication increased from 2002 to 2011 (from 10% in 2002 to 15% in 2006 to 19% in 2011). There was no change in the overall provision of RSA to those who reported three or more signs of intoxication between 2006 and 2011. However, particular RSA practices appear to have become more stringent among more intoxicated patrons (4% were asked to leave the premises in 2006 cf. 12% in 2011). Non-intoxicated patrons also reported that intoxicated patrons were asked to leave the licensed premises more often over this time period.
Conclusion
There has been an increase in the use of RSA initiatives in New South Wales licensed premises over the period 2002 through 2011.