28 January 2026 | The Australian Hotels Association (WA) has welcomed the WA Government’s rollout of the ‘Ask for Angela’ initiative, supporting measures that strengthen safety and confidence for patrons enjoying Western Australia’s pubs, clubs and hospitality venues.
AHA(WA) said the initiative aligns strongly with the industry’s long-standing commitment to providing safe, welcoming environments for both patrons and staff.
“Every patron should feel safe and confident when enjoying a night out, that’s what hospitality is all about,” said Angela Beechey, AHA(WA) Government Relations and Communications Manager.
“Safety in licensed venues is a shared responsibility, and ‘Ask for Angela’ is a practical, discreet tool that strengthens the work venues already do every day.”
Licensed venues already play a critical role in patron safety, with staff trained to identify risks and respond appropriately. ‘Ask for Angela’ gives staff an additional way to help someone early and calmly, before a situation escalates.
“In a busy venue, it can be as simple as a patron asking bar staff for ‘Angela’, which discreetly signals they need support,” Ms Beechey said. “Trained staff can then step in quietly — whether that’s moving the person to a safer space, arranging transport home, or providing further assistance.”
Ms Beechey said the strength of the initiative lies in its simplicity and ease of use in real-world hospitality settings.
“It’s a single, coded phrase that works in busy venues without disruption and fits naturally into everyday operations,” she said. “That simplicity, combined with awareness and training, is what makes it effective.”
AHA(WA) confirmed it will work closely with Government to support the rollout through existing industry training and resources.
“AHA(WA) delivers Responsible Service of Alcohol training to thousands of hospitality workers across Western Australia each year, and we will work with Government to incorporate ‘Ask for Angela’ awareness into these existing training frameworks,” Ms Beechey said.
Ms Beechey said public safety campaigns are most effective when they are widely understood and supported across government, industry and the community.
“Programs like ‘Ask for Angela’ reinforce a culture of safety, responsibility and community care within nightlife precincts,” she said. “Safer venues build trust, attract patrons and encourage people to return.”
The Australian Hotels Association WA encouraged venues across Western Australia to get involved and support the initiative as it is rolled out.
Pubs, clubs, hotels, entertainment venues, sports clubs and restaurants can access more information and free resources via www.lgirs.wa.gov.au/ask-for-angela
For further information, please contact Kim Forrester, media & communications executive, on 0411 777 593 or email mecom@ahawa.asn.au
The AHA(WA) is the authoritative voice for the hospitality and accommodation industry in Western Australia. Since 1892, we have protected and developed the interests of our members, through strong representation and the pursuit of industry excellence. Our mission is to ensure the hospitality industry remains a vital part of the Australian way of life and to amplify the voices of those we represent.
