The Hon Ian Callinan AC QC's review into the lockout laws and restrictions in New South Wales has been released. The Callinan Review received over 1,800 submissions in total and included almost 30 stakeholder sessions.

Mr. Callinan's report states that the lockout laws have made Kings Cross and the Sydney CBD safer and that they are valid. However, Mr. Callinan has suggested a number of changes to the existing legislation that could help licensees.

Currently, in NSW there exists a 1.30am lockout, 3am cease of alcohol service and 10pm restriction on take-away liquor sales.

The suggestions include:

  • Relaxing the 1.30am lockout and 3am last drinks measures for live entertainment venues to a 2am lockout and 3.30am last drinks for a two-year trial period.

  • Extending the state-wide sale of takeaway alcohol from 10pm to 11pm.

  • Extending the home delivery of alcohol from 10pm to midnight.


The report will now be considered by Deputy Premier Troy Grant who will provide a response before the end of the year.

Stakeholder briefings and community drop-in information sessions will also be held over the next few weeks to inform the public on the report’s findings. Find out more here.

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