Port Phillip preparing to ring in a happy New Year

Published 29 December 2023

Port Phillip Council is rolling out alcohol bans as part of its annual preparations for a safe and successful New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Revellers can’t drink or hold open alcohol containers in all public spaces, including beaches, from 8 pm 30 December until 12 noon 2 January.

There is also a ban on sealed containers of alcohol along the foreshore from 9 am 30 December to 9 am 1 January. The annual St Kilda foreshore alcohol ban, which began on 1 November, continues until 31 March 2024.

Mayor Heather Cunsolo said there are still plenty of opportunities for locals and visitors to celebrate the arrival of 2024 with a drink.

“While the alcohol bans help keep our beautiful open spaces clean and safe over this busy time, there are plenty of licensed private events and venues where you can responsibly raise a glass,” Cr Cunsolo said.

Council Local Laws Officers will be out and about accompanying Victoria Police as they enforce the alcohol bans in public spaces.

Cr Cunsolo urged everyone to play their part by looking after themselves, their family and friends and the City’s open spaces when ringing in the New Year.

An extra 48,000 litres of bin capacity has been provided across the foreshore, parks and retail precincts for summer.

“We need everyone to help keep our City clean by binning their rubbish or taking it with them. As a bayside municipality, we need to protect our vulnerable marine wildlife as well as keeping our parks and beaches enjoyable for everyone.”

A glass ban is always in force across Port Phillip’s foreshore.

Breaching the alcohol and glass bans can result in the confiscation of these items and a $192 fine.

There are no Council managed or permitted events or fireworks in public spaces on New Year’s Eve. Some private venues are holding NYE functions.

Managing public spaces over the New Year is a multi-agency effort with partners including Victoria Police, Liquor Licensing, Ambulance Victoria, Parks Victoria, Yarra Trams, VicRoads, Public Transport Victoria and Life Saving Victoria.

City-wide alcohol bans return from 8 pm 25 January to 12 noon 27 January for Australia Day.
To learn more about Port Phillip Council’s summer management campaign, go to the Play Your Part webpage.