QLD Haven't Learned From NSW Mistakes: State's Lockout Plan Passed

We really thought for a second that it wouldn't happen but QLD locals are in for a rude shock today with confirmation that the state's proposed plans for lockout laws have passed. 

As ABC reports, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced that a deal has been made with both Katter Party MP's, Bob Katter and Shane Knuth. 

Under the Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence Legislation Amendment Bill, drinks service will be cut off at 2am, or at 3am in entertainment zones, from 1 July this year. 

However, in the deal between Palaszczuk and the Katter Party, a 1am lockout in entertainment precincts will be postponed until July 2017. 

Under the new changes, those charged with drug offences will also be banned from nightclubs. 

An independent review of the laws is set to take place in July 2018.

In a statement provided by the Queensland governnment, Palaszczuk said, "We are committed to curbing alcohol-fuelled violence, but we are also committed to increasing employment and devoting more resources to mental health."

Katter echoed Palaszczuk comments, saying, "Alcohol-fuelled violence is an important social policy for the Government, and the impact of unemployment and the economic downturn are important social policy issues for us," while Knuth added, "The meaningful discussions we have had with the Government have ensured we have been able to make progress on all these issues."

The outcome is no doubt surprising for all involved, given that the Katter Party stated late last year that they opposed changes to the lockout laws. 

"We have been listening to many people right across Queensland and we believe they should not punish clubs that are doing the right thing," Knuth said in October.

"There are known problem spots like the Valley and the Gold Coast, and why should every hotel across Queensland be punished and suffer as a result of a few?"