The plan to rush new legislation on restrictions to late night trading has succeeded, with the NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell pushing the legislation through parliament last night.
The laws, which were announced last week, are set to enforce a 1:30am lockout from venues and a 3:00am ‘last drinks’ in a precinct that spans the CBD and Kings Cross (don’t worry Pyrmont, you’re still cool). There will also be a blanket 10:00pm closing time for bottle shops and a mandatory minimum sentence for assaults under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Barry O’Farrell said the laws would “make our streets safer” yet it is hard to figure out who exactly the laws are punishing. As the legislation was passed quickly, there was little time for debate, and it seems as though the people who the laws effect the most (us) had little say in the matter.
The Greens and independent MP Alex Greenwich did not support the proposal, though were unable to block the legislation. A handful Labor MPs were also opposed to the legislation citing mandatory minimum sentencing as a really bad idea.
While News.com.au reports that the laws are “set to be enforced this weekend” no details have been released from the government as to how this will come into place or how long it will take to roll out.
So, just to be safe, better buy your late night beers before 10pm.
Photo: Lisa Maree Williams via Getty
Via News.com.au
