The changes you need to know about.
The Sydney lockout laws have been a large issue of contention amongst Sydneysiders since its introduction in early 2014. Many argue the introduction of these laws have caused Sydney’s nightlife to stagnate and slowly die off, with small businesses hit the hardest. However, last week Mike Baird announced changes to the lockout laws.
A review since its introduction has made room for leniency in the strict 1:30am lockout and 3:00am last drinks. Under the direction of Premier Mike Baird, the following changes will be trialled for the next 2 years:
Small Venues:
- Maximum occupancy rate for small bars increased from 60 to 100 people
- Midnight closing time will now be extended to 2:00am.
These changes will come into place on 16 December 2016, just in time for the Christmas Party Season.
Medium to Large Venues:
Medium to Large Venues located in Kings Cross and the Sydney CBD Lockout Zone will have to wait until January 2017.
- 1:30am Lockout will now be extended until 2:00am
- 3:00am Last drinks will now be extended until 3:30am
- 10:00pm ban on Alcohol delivery will now be extended until 11:00pm
However, these changes will only apply to venues with live entertainment. Live entertainment venues will be determined in January, when venues apply to receive their classifications. However, what may be deemed as a live entertainment venue, is at discretion of the NSW government.
Another change affecting venue’s, is that of changes to liquor licensing rules. The burden is now on the licensee, and not the venue to ensure that rules are followed under the “three strikes” scheme this means that low-risk venues such as café’s or restaurants will be able to obtain a liquor license more easily.
As mentioned above, changes to medium to large venues do not come into effect until January 2017, meaning Christmas and New Year celebrations will still be subject to the current 1:30am Lockout and 3:00am last drinks.
To avoid being locked out this party season, make sure you know what changes will affect your venue of choice. If you come across any issues, or have been affected by the lockout laws or alcohol related violence, please contact Freedman & Gopalan Solicitors on 02 8917 8700 or fill out the enquiry box and we will get back to you ASAP.