The Rann Government is at it again.

Following the grossly unpopular attempts at curfews, alcohol taxes (federal government perhaps, but even so), cordoning off streets and increasing police patrols, the apparently super-conservative state government has just announced plans to ban alcohol consumption from 4-7 a.m. in licensed venues South Australia-wide.

The casino is the only exception to the rule.

“The casino should be able to trade 24 hours a day if that suits their business model, but … there is a moral obligation on the Government to be fair on other traders,” Ian Horne, Australian Hotels Association Chief Executive Officer, said.

“The casino has 985 poker machines, it is the biggest pub in town … maybe the Government was too scared to take them on.”

He added that the casino’s exemption was ‘offensive’ to other city traders.

Gail Gago, Consumer Affairs Minister, explained that the introduction will include more managed taxi ranks, four new inspectors and an education campaign, at a cost of $1.4 million upfront and then $750,000 a year to maintain.

Four new inspectors will go a long way at managing the thousands of club-goers who pour into the streets once the drinks stop flowing.

The question needs to be asked why the Government is so set on controlling Adelaide’s nightlife, when it in fact, rowdiness doesn’t appear to be such a heavy set issue upon a casual stroll down Hindley Street.

Don’t get us wrong- we’re not saying that there is no issue. Just that the Government’s reaction isn’t directly proportionate to the magnitude of the issue.

The implementation of these regulations is one which would hardly be permanent, as they realise that forcing club-goers from the venues in masses will create more havoc than it prevents.

Rann’s running out… good luck at the next re-election.