Frequently asked questions
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Frequently Given Answers
Q: How much does it cost?
A: It costs nothing for the club to be involved in the program.
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Q: Will we lose membership?
A: Evidence from clubs which have been involved in the program for some time indicate their membership has increased. The change in alcohol management practices has seen an increase in families having a social involvement with the club.
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Q: Why do people have to do the Responsible Serving of Alcohol (RSA) course?
A: The RSA course helps not only club bar staff, but club committee members understand the legal and social requirements of the club liquor license. Having RSA trained people may also help your club adhere to a duty of care which is expected from venues serving alcohol.
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Q: If bar sales drop how do we raise revenue?
A: Participation in the program does not necessarily mean the club reduces total bar sales. Many participating clubs have indicated that over a period of time their bar sales have actually increased due to greater club membership and involvement in club social activities. Many clubs have experienced revenue growth due to increased food and low/non-alcoholic beverage sales.
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Q: Does the program stop us serving alcohol?
A: No. The program is not about trying to 'dry up' clubs. It aims to help clubs implement responsible alcohol management practices.
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Q: Why do we need to change?
A: Community attitudes to alcohol have changed. Sporting clubs are now expected to show a duty of care for their members, or they face greater risks of legal action being taken as a result of alcohol-related incidents.
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Q: What are the benefits for our club?
A: Involvement in the program will assist your club to manage alcohol responsibly and provide a smoke free and safe environment for your members and visitors. In turn this creates a more positive community image of the club, encouraging more people to become involved thus generating more diverse streams of revenue for the club. Your club also receives free Good Sports merchandise to brand your club at each level.
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Q: It's just another job – who will do it?
A: The club has already made the decision to sell alcohol as a revenue earner and with that comes the requirement by law to have a liquor licence. Therefore someone is already 'doing the job’. Participating in the program is about the club committee ensuring a culture is developed over time so that when alcohol is served and promoted, it will be done in a positive and responsible way.
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Q: We are already very busy, does it involve more time and work?
A: It need not necessarily involve any more time or work than what your club is currently doing by selling or serving alcohol. Your local Good Sports representative will assist with any advice or provision of resources that your club may need to comply with the accreditation criteria.
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Q: Does the club have to do it?
A: No, there is no compulsion for the club to participate in the program. It is however a legal requirement that your club must have a liquor licence and comply with the condition of that licence if your club sells or consumes alcohol at the facilities.
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Q: How long does the accreditation process take?
A: To move through the full accreditation process can take up to five years, however your club can complete the full accreditation sooner if the criteria are addressed. Clubs must remain at each level of accrediation for a minimum of one year before progressing on to the next level.
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Q: We do most of the Good Sports criteria anyway, why do we need to be involved?
A: If the criteria is already being addressed the club may apply for Level 1 (or 0) accreditation straight away. Gaining accreditation is an effective way to demonstrate to the community that your club manages alcohol responsibly and promotes a positive environment which everyone can enjoy.
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Q: How do we get our members to understand and accept the message?
A: Through continued reinforcement of the accreditation criteria, initially by committee members. Over time the club community will realise the benefits of the program and develop a positive culture incorporating the principles.
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Q: How can we promote the program in the club?
A: There are many ways to promote the Good Sports program. Use club gatherings to advertise the program, such as annual meetings, new member days, information nights or functions. Make use of club newsletters, local publications and place signage around the club facilities to promote the club’s involvement in the program. Ongoing support from the committee is also important.
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Q: What can we do to minimise junior club member’s use of alcohol?
A: This is a most challenging issue and there is no clear answer. It is important to consistently communicate and reinforce the club’s policy on this issue. The club might consider communicating there will be no alcohol associated with junior events. This could include all junior trips or functions during the season, provision of non alcohol raffle prizes and best player awards for under 18 players regardless of grade.
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