A decision by the Palaszczuk government to impose harsh restrictions on unvaccinated patrons has been met with applause from many in the hospitality industry.

From December 17, or when 80 per cent of the state’s eligible population is fully vaccinated – whichever comes first – events and indoor venues will be limited to vaccinated people.

Queensland Hotels Association CEO Bernie Hogan says the move will give security and certainty to business owners who were initially going to have to make the decision themselves.

“Our industry has been very comfortable with policing people’s IDs or rejecting service for all sorts of reasons for decades,” he told Sofie Formica.

“We did hear from the Police Commissioner today saying we don’t expect staff to cop any abuse, and should that happen, they should call the police and they will sort things out.”

Mr Hogan shot down concerns the restrictions will be another blow to businesses.

“We weren’t going to get that last 10 per cent of Queenslanders to get vaccinated unless some of their liberties were curtailed.

“I’m really sure that by December 17, when they can invite the rest of Australia to Queensland, they’re going to find a way to stay open.”

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