Sydney Lockout Laws Passed, But They Won’t Start Immediately

31 January 2014 | 11:20 am | Scott Fitzsimons

Premier sticking to 'end of April' deadline

The controversial 'lockout' laws that are set to impact Sydney's nightlife were rushed through both houses of state parliament yesterday, with the 1.30am lockout to be implemented before the end of April.

Today a spokesperson from the Premier Barry O'Farrell's office confirmed to theMusic.com.au that the mandatory eight-year sentences for alcohol fuelled assaults ending in a fatality are in effect from this weekend, but the legislation in the Liquor Amendment Bill 2014 has a later deadline.

That means the 1.30am lockout, 3am cessation of drink service and 10pm state-wide closure of bottle shops are likely to be implemented before the end of April, a deadline the Premier had previously set.

This is despite media reporting that all the legislation will be in effect from this weekend.

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“The consequences couldn't be clearer for any thug heading out this weekend,” O'Farrell said. “If you are intoxicated with drugs or alcohol and fatally assault someone – you will now be captured by a new mandatory minimum sentence of eight years jail, with a maximum sentence of 25 years.

“The NSW Government has today sent the strongest possible message on behalf of the community – drug and alcohol – fuelled violence won't be tolerated anywhere in NSW.”

As part of the legislative package, a freeze on liquor licenses has been extended from Kings Cross and Oxford Street to the Sydney CBD Entertainment Precinct.

The laws have caused much debate in the music industry, with the Sydney Late Night Culture Alliance launched yesterday to campaign for the rights of live entertainment venues set to be impacted by the changes.