Newtown Has Proved There Are Options To Protect Our Streets Other Than Lockout Laws

Greens MP Jenny Leong says the locally-led response to alcohol related-violence and assaults in Newtown proves there are alternatives to Sydney's contentious lockout laws. 

The NSW Greens spokesperson on Night-time Culture and Economy said while recent reports showed assault rates have increased outside lockout zones, specific statistics out of Newtown in relation to assaults has remained stable, even with an increase in foot traffic. 

"Around 70 people attended our recent public meeting and many more gave feedback via an online survey run by the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre," Leong said in a statement.

"Overwhelmingly, locals told us that they want Newtown to be a place that is friendly and open to visitors, but emphasised that everyone on our streets and in our venues needs to act respectfully.

"At the meeting we reported back on the Vibe Roundtable [a group established in 2015] which brought together stakeholders who have been monitoring the mood in Newtown and working together on local solutions to maintain the safety and vibrancy of the local neighbourhood.
 
"For 18 months our locally-led committee has responded to the challenges faced by our local community.

"We don't claim to have solved all the issues, but we have responded to concerns and collaborated to minimise the impacts and changes in our area."

Leong added that lockout laws are punishing the entire community, including the people who act responsibly. 

"People should be allowed to dance until dawn if they want to or go out for a late-night drink, as long as they’re not behaving badly," Leong said.
 
"A more collaborative response is what's needed, with Government, emergency services, Councils, creative communities, businesses and venues working together with the community on measures that directly address alcohol-fuelled violence and aggression."