NSW Government Revitalizes Sydney's Nightlife with Abolition of Lockout Laws

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The NSW government has removed the final major lockout laws that have been in place for over a decade in a move hoped to boost Sydney‘s nightlife.

The regulations enforcing a 3:30 a.m. “last drinks” policy, the compulsory use of public cups, and the requirement for Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) marshals after midnight at select establishments are all being rescinded.

Music and the Night-time Economy Minister John Graham declared the lockout laws have been “completely abolished”.

Over half of Sydney’s music venues went out of business following the restrictions being put in place. (Marquee Sydney)

“I’m thrilled to turn the page on this chapter of Sydney’s nightlife,” he commented.

Graham acknowledged that, although the laws were introduced with good intentions, they ultimately stifled the city’s economic vitality and tarnished its reputation.

“These were the laws that saw Madonna and Justin Bieber not allowed into their own afterparties, and the decimation of the club scene that spawned Rufus Du Sol and Flight Facilities,” Graham said.

Since these restrictions were implemented in 2014, more than half of Sydney’s music venues have been forced to close their doors.

This move is part of the Minn’s government strategy to rejuvenate nightlife in areas previously affected by lockout laws, including Kings Cross, Oxford Street, and the Sydney Central Business District.

The lifting of the restrictions comes exactly 12 years after the lockout laws were announced in response to an increase in assaults at night across these areas, including the one-punch deaths of young men Thomas Kelly and Daniel Christie.

The decision comes as the Minns government aims to boost nightlife. (9News)

A few measures will remain in place, including the violent incident registers, preserving crime scenes and a ban on outlaw motorcycle gang colours and insignia.

“I’m pleased to call time on the lockout laws after a thorough and considered review by Liquor and Gaming NSW found no compelling reason to single out licensed venues in the Sydney CBD and Kings Cross with outdated restrictions,” Gaming and Racing Minister David Harris said.

“The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has confirmed downward trends in alcohol-related violence in the Sydney CBD and Kings Cross over the past five years following earlierchanges to lockout laws.

“These included an extension of last drinks from 3am to 3.30am and the repeal of the 1.30am lockout.”