Top 10 Consumer, Health and Family Headlines from Asia Pacific The introduction of a national consumer law regime has been a key priority on the policy agenda of the Rudd government. The sale of alcohol is an essential and profitable element of an accommodation hotel’s service. However, excessive consumption by hotel guests can cause problems for hotel operators, as Jacob Duane explains. Up until now, applicants have been able to apply to the Director of Liquor Licensing (WA) (Director) for an extended trading permit (ETP) (ongoing hours) or an ETP (for restaurants to sell or supply liquor without a meal) when lodging an application for the grant or removal of a liquor licence. A recent Supreme Court decision may rule out any future claims for compensation by liquor licensees who have suffered financial loss as a result of allegedly negligent decisions by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR). The Senate passed the National Consumer Credit Protection Act and a number of associated Bills on Monday 26 October 2009. Some of Queensland’s special tourist facilities very nearly bid farewell to 24 hour room service and mini-bars, champagne breakfasts and early morning weddings! On 16 September 2009, the Queensland Premier announced a 12-month moratorium on all applications for extended trading hours between midnight and 5am. Live music and entertainment in restaurants, pubs, cafes and clubs is now set to flourish. New laws commenced this week which aim to encourage live music. Entities should review their use of standard form contracts to ensure that they comply with the regime. The National Consumer Credit Protection Reform Package (NCCP Package), comprising of the 3 Bills, the National Consumer Credit Protection Bill 2009 (NCCP Bill), the National Consumer Credit Protection (Fees) Bill 2009 and the National Consumer Credit Protection (Transitional and Consequential Provision) Bill 2009, were passed by the Senate on 26 October 2009 and are awaiting assent. | 
