Victorians will be able to cheer on the Socceroos together in the early hours of the morning after the State Government announced special liquor licensing arrangements for Australia’s FIFA World Cup clash against Egypt.
Premier Jacinta Allan confirmed the government will use its powers under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 to automatically approve extended trading for licensed venues across Victoria, allowing pubs and bars to open for the 4am Melbourne time kick-off.
“I am announcing that my government will use its powers under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 to grant automatic approval for every pub and licensed venue in Victoria to operate for the game,” she said in a statement.
The temporary approval means venues screening the match can remain open overnight, with last drinks permitted up to one hour after the final whistle.
The move is designed to ensure football fans can experience the knockout clash in a lively atmosphere, despite the challenging kick-off time, with hotels, pubs and other licensed venues able to welcome supporters without needing to apply individually for extended trading permits.
The Socceroos’ meeting with Egypt is expected to attract large crowds across Melbourne, with many venues likely to host special screenings as Australia continues its FIFA World Cup campaign.
Fans planning to watch the match at their local venue are encouraged to check with individual pubs and bars for opening times and booking requirements ahead of kick-off.
AAMI Park and Federation Square will once more serve as live sites hosting public watch parties for the Socceroos. The first 10,000 fans through the gates at AAMI Park will be served a free hot breakfast, with doors opening at 3am. Ham and cheese toasties, croissants, vegetarian quiche, cheese and bacon pies and breakfast sausage rolls will be available at no cost.
