Expat Reveals Shocking Aussie Pub Rule That Might Make You Think Twice Before Your Next Pint!

As Australians, we cherish our local pubs – they're the cornerstone of many communities, a place for mateship, laughter, and of course, a good pint. But for one British expat, the Aussie pub experience has left a bitter taste in his mouth, prompting a stark comparison between the laid-back British pub culture and what he perceives as the 'too strict' rules governing Sydney's watering holes.

Richard Turton, who has been living in Australia for two years, was enjoying an evening out near Sydney Harbour with his fiancée and another couple when his night took an unexpected turn. After consuming 'some pints' and a shot, he was suddenly confronted by doormen and instructed to leave the premises, much to his surprise and confusion.


'The first feeling was complete surprise. It was the last thing I expected,' Turton recounted to Yahoo News. He and his group, all in their 30s and not a 'rowdy bunch,' were left bewildered as the security staff at the pub failed to provide a clear reason for their ejection.


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Pubs are a place for socialisation and enjoying other people's company. Image Credit: Pexels/Marcus Herzberg


Upon pressing for an explanation, Turton was informed that his eyes appeared 'red' and 'glassy,' his speech was slurred, and he was showing signs of intoxication. Despite his protests, the decision was final, and his evening was abruptly cut short at 9:30 pm.


This incident has led Turton to declare he's 'done with pubs' in Sydney, criticizing the strict enforcement of drinking rules and the bouncers' eagerness to exercise their authority. He laments the stark contrast to the UK's pub scene, where he never had to worry about being accepted for a 'casual drink.'

In Australia, the responsible service of alcohol (RSA) is taken very seriously. Workers in the industry must complete an RSA course and adhere to guidelines that promote safe and responsible alcohol service. In New South Wales, for example, if there are reasonable grounds to believe someone is intoxicated, service must be refused, and the individual must be asked to leave the premises.

While these rules are in place to prevent alcohol-related harm and maintain public safety, Turton feels that Sydney's pubs could strike a better balance. He argues that the current approach is 'really off-putting' and detrimental to the city's nightlife, expressing a desire for a more relaxed atmosphere where one can enjoy a drink and conversation without the fear of being thrown out.


Our members here at the Seniors Discount Club might have mixed feelings about this issue. On one hand, we all appreciate a safe and comfortable environment when we're out enjoying ourselves. On the other hand, we also understand the importance of a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, especially in our local pubs where we gather to unwind and catch up with friends.

So, what do you think? Have you experienced strict enforcement of pub rules in your local area? Do you feel it's necessary for the safety and well-being of patrons, or does it go too far, dampening the spirit of our beloved Aussie pubs? Share your stories and thoughts with us in the comments below – we'd love to hear about your experiences!
Key Takeaways

  • A British expat voiced his displeasure at the strict drinking rules in a Sydney pub after being asked to leave for showing signs of intoxication.
  • Richard Turton was surprised by the eviction, especially as he was with a calm group in their 30s.
  • Turton compares the Aussie pub scene as the 'opposite end of the spectrum' to the UK, calling for a more relaxed approach to promote a better nightlife.
  • In NSW, pub staff are required to undergo RSA training and adhere to rules that include refusing service and asking to leave if there are reasonable grounds to believe a person is intoxicated.
And remember, if you're planning a night out, it's always wise to be aware of the local rules and drink responsibly to ensure a good time for everyone involved. Cheers to that!
 
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I worked in the hospitality industry through the 80s,90s and early 2000s and the introduction of the RSA laws were the best thing ever as there's nothing worse than a drunk who thinks their 10 foot tall and bullet proof ,I whole heartedly agree with them and maybe the pubs and clubs should be as vigilant with the Responsible Service of Gambling laws as well
 
Country publican here and the laws are there for a very good reason. Sadly though, many in the hospitality industry can, and do, abuse it.
I know publicans l, and staff, who ignore the laws and allow all sorts of bad, drunken behaviours and I know publicans, and staff, who have a 'after three drinks' have been consumed and then you are cut off rule. They will only serve you water or insist you leave the premises.
It can be a very fine line too to know whether someone has a disability, red eyes, slurred due to health issues and or medications
If the RSA law is followed correctly it protects people both on the licensed premises as well as the general public once patrons leave the licensed premises. For example drink driving.
 
If they weren't yahooing, yelling out, behaving like 'Rag Dick Shit Heads &were behaving themselves like they shud have been, why toss 'em out ? A bit over the top in my thoughts.
They must have been doing something to bring this attention to them. I sometimes think I am being quiet but apparently I am not. It could be something like that
 
The line between a tipsy drinker talking a bit loud, or walking unsteadily, and a drunken prat making everyone's outing into a complete nightmare can be as little as one drink.

Given that it takes time for alcohol to be processed by the body, it is often too late to wait until the effects of that drink are clearly visible.

That's why the RSA laws were introduced; to stop trouble before it starts.

In Sydney there's a zero tolerance policy and severe penalties for a business that fails to comply with the laws.
 
Don't forget the poor publican who was sued by a client who had an accident on the way home and was badly injured. He sued the publican for serving him alcohol and for making him drunk. Naturally RSA's became cautious and made sure they served within the laws as it was expensive to do otherwise.
 
Don't forget the poor publican who was sued by a client who had an accident on the way home and was badly injured. He sued the publican for serving him alcohol and for making him drunk. Naturally RSA's became cautious and made sure they served within the laws as it was expensive to do otherwise.
True
 
Probably had some before arriving but to get that kind of attention must have been a reason that kind of thing doesn’t happen without a valid reason
 
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Some o to far, I had the the misfotune tp trip on a bit of carpet while going to the bar, while stonecold,
Motherless Suday. I was informed that I was drunk and could'nt be served. Just another knuckle dragger who could'nt teel his arse from his elbowwho tell his arse from his elbow.
Dear Members we are being CENSORED in an open Fromu well as far as i'm concerned!!.
Illegitimi Non carborundum
 
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