The dual launch of the Rethink that Sneaky Drink and One Punch Can Kill campaigns reinforce Wagga’s zero tolerance approach to one-punch attacks. 

It came as police announced a drop in the number of alcohol-related assaults. 

Under current laws, there is a state-wide minimum eight year sentencing for king-hit assaults. 

Locals caught under-age drinking also face fines and a one year ban from all licensed venues in the city.

Wagga’s David Abbott, who was assaulted by drunken thugs while working as a security guard, has thrown his support behind the clamp-down on liquor licensing responsibilities and violence. 

He described anyone who throws a coward-punch as “a lowlife who needs to be removed from the streets”. 

“The punishments need to be worse. If someone pulls out a coward punch, they need to be removed from the public and dealt with very harshly,” he said.

“This is a good step in the right direction.

“I know that pretty much all the clubs and pubs in Wagga are trying to do the right thing, but it’s just not an easy job.” 

Home Tavern licensee Trevor Jones, who has worked around Wagga’s nightlife for 12 years, said it was often very difficult to manage drunken patrons, especially with little to no security on weekdays. 

“It’s very hard on the female staff when you have intoxicated, fired up people who get aggressive when you cut them off,” he said.

“I see it all the time, guys getting angry and making a huge scene and being abusive when you try to tell them enough is enough.”

Wagga superintendent commander Bob Noble said police will continue to tighten their approach towards the responsible service of alcohol. 

“We’re going to keep a close eye on under-age drinking, drug abuse and antisocial behaviour in licensed venues,” he said. 

And deputy mayor Dallas Tout said that council will put forward a number of initiatives to promote responsible attitudes.

“We’re going to educate the young people in the community to think about their decisions and behaviours before they act,” Cr Tout said.