The Basement Joins Growing List Of Sydney Venues Enjoying Lockout Exemptions

Revered Sydney live-music venue The Basement has, along with two other spaces, been approved for exemptions from the city's "draconian" lockout laws, joining the likes of the Oxford Art Factory, World Bar and Stonewall on the ever-growing list.

As Triple M reports, Minister For Racing Paul Toole MP made the announcement of The Basement's exemption approval — along with that of Kings Cross pub O'Malley's and Pitt Street's Republic Hotel — today, pushing the total number of venues able to receive patrons until 2am (and serve until 3.30am) to 10.

He called the decision "part of our Government's commitment to create a more vibrant nightlife for Sydney while balancing the need for community safety", and lauded The Basement's historic and ongoing role in the live music scene.

"The Basement at Circular Quay is a Sydney institution well known to generations of music lovers," Toole said.

"Since 1972, it has hosted thousands of acclaimed national and international acts across rock, pop, jazz, country and blues."

According to Toole, there are more than 15 additional applications yet to be decided upon by the Office of Liquor & Gaming, though it is not clear at this time how many of those are dedicated live music venues.

"More approvals are expected to be announced soon with Liquor & Gaming NSW currently considering applications from a further 16 venues," he said.