We get it – running an event at your flat or home seems like a great way to save money and provide a fun, unrestricted atmosphere. However it comes with a number of risks, all of which you should consider before going ahead.
Know the Law
Alcohol
Remember that any event involving alcohol that costs money to attend (members are charged for attendance via tickets) is required to be held on a licenced premises.
Since your flat or home is not a licence premise, and you cannot get special licences for private residences, if you are selling tickets, your event involves alcohol, and you’re running it at your home or flat, you risk a $20,000 fine.
Noise
You have an obligation to ensure that the noise you make from your flat or home does not exceed a reasonable level that disturbs or annoys people day or night. Tip: Keep an eye on your bass level because the noise can travel far.
See more details here.
Health and Safety
A reminder that health and safety does not stop applying just because you’re not on campus. The law still applies to events run on private property.
Other Considerations
Once you know the law, there are other things you need to consider.
These include things like:
- Putting on some food and water.
- Giving your neighbours a heads up.
- Telling your landlord.
- Looking after your mates.
- Tucking away your possessions.
- Looking after those who attend.
- Avoiding open invites on social media. (It can get out of hand.)
- Tidying up any mess left on the street afterwards.
Even if your party starts out fine, things can turn quickly. For that reason UCSA strongly recommends that any parties held at flats are registered through the Good One Party Register.
Good One Party Register
When parties go bad it’s worse for the hosts. Good One is here to help you have a good time while keeping your friends and neighbours safe. Registering takes two minutes, and it allows the Police to know about your party in advance so that they can support you if you need it. Their website also has heaps of useful tips on hosting.