Committee to examine controversial laws which premier says led to a fall in assaults

This article is more than 1 year old

This article is more than 1 year old

A cross-party New South Wales parliamentary committee will look at Sydney’s controversial lockout laws as part of a review of the city’s night-time economy, after a fall in the number of assaults.

The NSW joint select committee will consult with police and health, community, entertainment and music groups, the state’s premier, Gladys Berejiklian, announced on Wednesday.

The premier says non-domestic assaults have dropped in the CBD and Kings Cross since 2014 when the government introduced controversial lockout laws in response to alcohol-fuelled violence.

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“During this period, we have also worked to relax certain aspects of the laws such as extending trading hours for bars and clubs for major events, and making it easier for small bars, restaurants and cafes to start up and operate,” Berejiklian said in a statement.

“After five years of operation, it makes sense for us to now take stock and examine whether any further changes should be made.”

The committee will look at any measures needed to maintain and enhance health outcomes and community safety, enhance the night economy and ensure that regulations – including lockout laws – remain balanced.

It will report to parliament by the end of September.

The lord mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, welcomed the announcement, saying the lockout laws had taken a “sledgehammer” to Sydney’s nightlife.

“As the committee considers winding back the laws, it must consider other measures to ensure a safe and vibrant nightlife,” she tweeted on Wednesday.

Moore suggested running public transport 24 hours on Friday and Saturday nights and replacing lifetime liquor licences with renewable licences.