12 months, 47 glassing attacks have been reported in Queensland, with an alarming 36 occurring on the
Gold Coast alone. The Bligh government takes this matter very seriously, and incidents of this type are
totally unacceptable. That is why the state government is cracking down on the use of glass in high-risk
problem venues across the state in a bid to improve public safety and reduce alcohol fuelled violence.
The Premier announced recently that the government will additionally establish a far-reaching
state-wide parliamentary inquiry into alcohol related violence and its ramifications as part of a
determined effort to improve public safety throughout the state. This inquiry will not only examine the
role of licensees and publicans in introducing measures to reduce alcohol related violence; it will also
examine the role of parents in educating children to the dangers of alcohol.
The Bligh government is working with the liquor industry and the Queensland Police Service to
identify high-risk venues and aims to replace glass with plastic or similar cups by the end of the year.
Enough is enough. We have to stop glass being used as a weapon. Of the 45 recorded incidences of
glassings in licensed premises in Queensland alone since July last year, 64 per cent have occurred in
hotels with a further 17 per cent occurring in nightclubs. While well over half of these matters occurred
after midnight, surprisingly 15 per cent occurred before 8 pm. Glassing attacks have become part of a
frightening culture. What young people are doing to themselves and each other these days is quite
scary.
Patron safety is of utmost importance, and the government will not apologise for taking a tough
stance on this issue. The Bligh government is meeting its commitments to keep the community safe and
reduce alcohol related violence. Too many of our young people are becoming victims of the misuse and
abuse of alcohol. It is the responsibility of a good government to protect them from harm while working
to change this dangerous alcohol culture.
