NSW Government announces controversial lockout laws will be lifted in Sydney’s CBD and Oxford Street

Five years after they were first introduced to curb alcohol-fueled violence, Sydney's lockout laws are finally set to be lifted in the CBD. Premier Gladys Berejiklian first announced plans to repeal the lockouts back in September, and now we finally know when this will happen: January 14, 2020. See full announcement video here: https://www.facebook.com/7NEWSsydney/videos/594316287979863/

The NSW Government has announced that the lockout laws will be scrapped for all venues in the Sydney CBD Entertainment precinct. They will, however, remain in place in the Kings Cross area.

A parliamentary report by the joint select committee on Sydney’s night-time economy in September advised the Coalition government to lift the laws in the CBD, saying they cost the state $16bn a year.

The parliamentary committee report, released on 30 September, said the Kings Cross party precinct was “not yet sufficiently changed” to warrant the removal of lockout laws, and the issue should be revisited in 12 months.

Here is what will change on 14th January 2020:

• Removing 1.30am last entry for all licensed venues in Sydney CBD, including Oxford Street

• Last drinks will be served at 3.30am, which is in line with live music venues in Sydney as well as global cities including Los Angeles, New York and Singapore.

• Removing restrictions on serving cocktails, shots, and drinks in glass after midnight

• Extending bottle shop opening hours across NSW until midnight from Monday to Saturday, with an 11pm closing time on Sunday.

• Increasing small bar patron capacity from 100 to 120 across NSW.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she supported the reinvigoration of Sydney’s entertainment districts, but that the focus should remain on community safety.

“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 true global city.” Ms Berejiklian said.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the changes would transform Sydney from "good to great" and the city should shine after dark.

"The government doesn't do fun very well so we are going to get out of the way and help Sydney be the best place to live, work and play," Mr Perrottet said.

Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres will be responsible for the night-time economy.

We are thrilled with the changes to be made on Jan 14th, and we are excited to see what’s next for Sydney. It will take some time for Sydney’s nightlife and international reputation to be rebuilt. The lockouts have done a lot of damage, however - it will take the community, government, and industry stakeholders to all come together to build a fun and safe environment for everyone to enjoy.