Know who's at your party
A great way to see who’s coming and going is to take turns ‘manning’ the gate throughout the night. As well as keeping an eye out for gatecrashers, you’ll be able to encourage your guests to get home safely (and peacefully!).
Put on a spread
Provide plenty to eat throughout the night, aiming for roughly two saussies and bread per person. Your guests will love you for it.
Look after your mates
Have non-alcoholic drinks available and look out for your guests. If you feel worried about someone, ask them to stop or slow down. You might also want to have a central bar area where alcohol can be kept and served by someone sober.
Deter gatecrashers
You’re responsible for who’s at your party and how they behave, so if gate crashers turn up, tell them its a private party. If they come in and won’t leave (or you’re having any issues) you can always call the police for assistance. It’s better to deal with a small problem early before things get out of control.
Reduce noise
As the night goes on, avoid complaints by reducing the noise. A key gripe is the bass level so turn down the bass knob on your stereo to reduce how much the sound travels. If a noise control officer does turn up, make yourself known and work with them. If you do, you’ll have a better chance of avoiding further problems (as they do have the power to seize equipment and issue fines).
Don't hesitate to call the cops if things are getting hairy
If you’ve registered with Good One and the police visit, they may call you from the street so that you can go out to meet them. If they come in, make yourself known to them and have a chat. They’re there to help and will be best able to do that if you work with them, and encourage your guests to do the same. If things go pear-shaped don't hesitate to call the police for help.
Other legal stuff…
Fires: Outdoor fires (including bonfires) are illegal and could cost you and your flatties $300 or more each! If anyone starts one, get that puppy quickly put out.
Liquor ban: Your home might be in a liquor ban area, so make sure your mates don’t drink on the pavement or road, and place a wheelie bin by your gate so they can leave bottles behind at the end of the night. You or your mates could be arrested or given a fine of $250 if you ignore the rules of the liquor ban area.
Supply of alcohol to minors: It’s illegal to supply alcohol to anyone under 18 years unless you have expressed consent from their parent or legal guardian. If you have consent you must supervise the drinking, provide food, make available low or non-alcoholic drinks and ensure safe transport options are in place. You could be fined up to $2,000 if you don’t follow this law.