LOCK OUT LAWS REPEALED AND NEW LIQUOR LAW REFORMS FOR NSW
The lockout laws were introduced by the NSW Government five years ago with the aim to reduce alcohol-fuelled violence following the fatal one punch attack on teenager Thomas Kelly in Kings Cross in 2012.
Sydney was once world famous for its bustling and vibrant nightlife until strict lockout laws were enforced in the CBD. While many agree that the lockout laws had made Sydney safer, the crackdown brought the lively night-time economy to an abrupt standstill and forced almost 200 licensed venues to close their doors.
NSW Premier Ms Berejiklian said, “Sydney has transformed dramatically over recent years, and we need to ensure we have a strong and vibrant night-time economy that reflects our position as Australia’s only truly global city”
The liquor law reforms will be implemented in stages to allow time for consultation with stakeholders with the first raft of liquor law reforms to be introduced to commence on 14 January and will:
- Remove the blanket lockout measure for the Sydney CBD Entertainment Precinct.
- Relax the blanket last drinks time for the Sydney CBD Entertainment Precinct from 3am to 3:30am for most venues.
- Relax certain drinks restrictions for the Sydney CBD Entertainment Precinct.
- Relax Kings Cross ID scanners hours of operation.
Relax the remaining freeze restrictions for producer/wholesaler licences. - Increase the patron capacity of small bars, microbreweries and small distilleries under relevant licensing arrangements from 100 to 120.
- Extend the free, streamlined small bar licence conversion process.
- Extend general liquor trading hours for the sale of takeaway alcohol, from 11pm to midnight on Monday to Saturday and from 10pm to 11pm on Sunday.
To read more about the reforms and how they will effect your business >>>>
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