Illicit warehouse parties are flourishing across Sydney in defiance of the official crackdown on nightlife, as the state government prepares to review the controversial lockout laws.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian last week ordered a review of Sydney’s lockout laws, which have been blamed for the closure of scores of nightclubs and live music venues in the inner-city that were already under siege from neighbours over noise.

Heavy-handed regulation has led to an increase in warehouse parties. Credit:Photos by Boaz

There have been 12 breaches of the 1.30am or 2am lockout restrictions since the laws were introduced in 2014, and none for the 3am or 3.30am last-drinks restrictions, according to Liquor & Gaming NSW.

But parties are flourishing in makeshift venues that might not comply with planning regulations and where patrons bring their own alcohol, face minimal security and drugs are often present. Parties are being held in laneways, tunnels, national parks, beaches as well as warehouses in industrial areas on both sides of the harbour.