Sydney punters will get a short break from the state government’s controversial lockout laws with the state announcing it will temporarily lift the laws on New Year’s Eve, allowing patrons to safely enter pubs and clubs following the traditional midnight fireworks.
According to The Daily Telegraph, new customers will be able to enter licensed premises in the city and Kings Cross until 3am New Year’s Eve, as opposed to the regular 1.30am lockout time, but last drinks will remain at 3am. Trading hours will also stay the same.
The government said concerns were raised as to the safety of a large number of passengers leaving boats on the harbour after the midnight fireworks and trying to enter venues before 1.30am. The decision to temporarily lift the lockout laws was made on advice from the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing, police and the City of Sydney.
“This is a common sense approach for what is the biggest night on the Sydney calendar,” Deputy Premier and liquor and hospitality minister Troy Grant said. “Sydney is the greatest city in the world to spend New Year’s Eve and I want people to have fun, be safe and look after their mates. “This is about striking the right balance between common sense, industry and individual responsibility.”
Since their introduction back in January, Sydney’s lockout laws have proved controversial, with many small businesses reporting dwindling profits because of the legislation and some studies even showing an increase in incidents occurring outside the designated lockout areas.
Still the temporary lifting of the laws, even for one night, will likely stir opposition from supporters of the legislation, given that they were introduced in reaction to the fatal New Year’s Eve punch on 18-year-old Daniel Christie last year.
