{
  "id": 9693367,
  "title": "Pubs to go to the dogs in premier's pre-election pitch",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/pubs-to-go-to-the-dogs-in-premiers-pre-election-pitch",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-24T08:45:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Discovered",
    "slug": "discovered",
    "url": "https://theleader.com.au/story/9357071/pubs-to-go-to-the-dogs-in-premiers-pre-election-pitch"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Victorian Premier Ben Carroll unveiled a series of reforms aimed at revitalising the state's night-time economy ahead of the November election. Key changes include allowing pubs to stay open until 3am and permitting dogs inside venues at the owner's discretion. Labor would fast-track and extend licence applications for established operators. Premier Carroll highlighted that pubs are already among the best in the nation and that European pubs have been dog-friendly for years. The Rose Hotel in Fitzroy, which was previously ordered to bar dogs, has garnered over 24,500 signatures in support of the change. Publican Neil Spark welcomed the announcement but noted that extended hours would only be feasible for certain venues. While the specifics of where dogs would be allowed under Labor's proposal are still under consultation, the Premier stated that it would be informed by public input. Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill backed the proposal, citing a change in community attitudes towards alcohol-fuelled violence. However, some, like community group Reclaim Chapel Street founder Sandy Petrovic-Defteros, remain unconvinced, warning of potential rises in crime after 1am. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson praised the move but emphasized the need for more incentives to attract customers. Industry body Australian Hotels Association Victoria CEO Paddy O Sullivan hailed the changes as a boon for the pub industry, citing reduced bureaucratic hurdles and longer operating hours.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}