While there are hoops to jump through, a Liquor Lic is actually very cheap.
The suggestion is for a “General Bar” – unlimited number of patrons, no gambling, and can offer entertainment (dancing, right?). The Licence is a base fee of $557 per annum – extra hours or special features are extra. Additionally there are RSA training costs, and an annual Licensee fee ($135).
Water must always be available, and so must food when alcohol is being served. (see below for more about food).
Just some thoughts about serving drinks.
Today a bar can buy say, a bottle of Corona or Peroni for around $2.50 each. Just this week I was charged $12.00 for a Peroni.
A bottle of bourbon as another example is around $40 wholesale, and contains 25 “standard drinks”, at around $2.00 each. A typical “shot” in a bar is $11.00, and add some coke? $12-16.
An option often used is the “Entrance Fee with Drink”. $20 entrance fee, and a ticket for a drink from a (limited) range. As an example get a Corona with entrance – that is viewed as a $10 drink included in the $20. Speaks value to patrons.
The “FOOD” required includes standard bar snacks, toasted sandwiches, pies, or light meals.
Worst case there are many prepackaged foods made espeally for this market – all you need is a microwave.
No one is suggesting opening a full kitchen, how ever that could be a possibility if desired.
An interesting idea that is expanding here and overseas is partnering with food trucks – they use that carpark AND supply a menu. Neat option as it’s no further outlay or work.