THE Victorian Government has hit country football and cricket clubs with a massive 400 per cent hike in their liquor licence fees.
The hike has wiped the Christmas cheer from the faces of members of many small clubs, as bills landed in letter boxes across the state this week stating the minimum annual fee had jumped from $89 to $397.
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Victorian Country Football League chief executive Glen Scott said the licence was crucial to clubs who derived 20 per cent or more of their income from bar takings.
"I don't think a lot of thought has gone into this (new fee structure)," Mr Scott said.
Tatong Cricket Club treasurer Karl Vaivads said he couldn't believe the price hike was so high.
"How are we meant to absorb this when sports clubs are already suffering with less with the drought and all sorts of other issues," Mr Vaivads said. "It's not just sporting clubs, it's detrimental to all not-for-profit groups."
The Government has announced not-for-profit organisation can apply for a discount or waiver "if payment of the full amount would cause serious financial hardship".
However the four-page hardship application form, together with all required supporting documentation, must be lodged with the Responsible Alcohol Victoria unit by no later than December 31.
A spokeswoman for Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson said the waiver would only apply to clubs facing genuine hardship.
Mr Scott said the December 31 deadline, given most football clubs were inactive in the lead-up to Christmas, was ridiculous.
"It's unfair to expect winter sports to get their applications in before January 1," Mr Scott said.
But the minister's spokesman said there would be no extension of the December 31 deadline.
Applicants will also have to reapply each year for a waiver or reduction in their fees.
Nationals MP for Benalla Bill Sykes urged clubs to get applications in as soon as possible.
"They'll be swamped with applications," Dr Sykes said. "The Labor Government doesn't understand how these smaller country clubs work and they're making policy on the run."
Last Modified on 01/03/2010 15:25