Underage drinkers caught in a licensed premises in Broken Hill and Far West NSW will be banned from all local venues until they turn 19.
The new rule is the result of major changes to liquor licensing laws in the Barrier region, which come into effect today.
It's not just adolescents who can be banned, anyone over 18 who encourages or assists them in entering a venue will be locked out of all venues across the far west until the 19th birthday of the person they tried to help.
According to the Barrier Liquor Accord it's about protecting licensees, who face large fines of up to $12,000 and possible jail time for repeated infringements.
"None of our families want to see us in jail because some 17-year-old, a week before they turn 18 thought they were going to try their luck and sneak into a venue," said accord chairman, Michael Boland.
Licensees across the region have voted unanimously in favour of the move.
"I just encourage all young people to wait til your birthday clicks over and then you an enjoy yourself with your mates."
Michael Boland said the new laws would not affect parents wanting to drink while out on a family dinner or at other events.
"Nothing changes with that they're still welcome in the venue to have their meal to go to functions weddings that kind of thing.
"It's more proactive around the ones that are sneaking into venues to deliberately drink and try and party with their friends that we're stamping out."
'Their house, their rules'
The Liquor Accord includes venues in Wilcannia, Ivanhoe, White Cliffs, Broken Hill and more.
Barrier Police District Crime Manager, Tom Aylett, supports the new rules and says it's well within the law.
"It's their house, it's their rules," he said.
"You're going to have to drive a considerable distance to get a beer."
