"Draconian" Lockout Laws Take Another Hit As Popular Sydney Venue Scores Exemption

Last month it was World Bar and Stonewall and now another popular Sydney live music venue, Oxford Art Factory, has gained exemption to the city's lockout laws. 

As is the deal with all venues that have been granted exemptions, the Oxford Street establishment will push its lockout time back by half an hour to 2am, effective immediately. 

"I strongly urge all licensed premises in the CBD, both large or small, to stand with us and apply for this much needed exemption from the lockout laws, Oxford Art Factory licensee Mark Gerber said in a statement shared on the venue's Facebook. 

"If you are a small bar and are now able to extend your trading hours then look at doing this asap. If you are a licensed venue that can or does already support live entertainment then you should also apply.

"The future of Sydney's nightlife and its cultural vibrancy depends on a united front and a show of strength from all affected venues and the people who use them. Change can only come if we all work and stand together to change the tide on the damage that these draconian laws have caused to this great city of ours over the last three years.

"Join us and let's all show them how great and vibrant our city really is!"

See the full statement below.