10,000 descend on Sydney for anti-lockouts rally

Photo Credit: Ashley Mar

Approximately 10,000 people turned out to march in protest against the New South Wales Government’s controversial lockout laws at the weekend.

Taking place in various locations across Sydney, Keep Sydney Open garnered influential support from notable names including Jimmy Barnes, The Jezabels’ singer Hayley Mary and Urthboy.

The rally heard calls to lift the lockout laws that have been in effect since 2014, restricting central Sydney venues from admitting new patrons after 1:30am and prohibiting the serving of alcohol after 3am.

The laws also prohibit the sale of takeaway alcohol after 10pm. 

The rally was the second protest march of its kind, following up from February’s rally. With fresh support and a newfound vigour, protesters passionately voiced their displeasure with the Sydney lockout laws, which they claim are killing Sydney’s live entertainment industry.

Protesters were treated to speeches by artists and live performances from Paul Mac with Stereogamous and hip-hop group One Day, who also put their support behind the movement.

Live music venue attendance has dropped 40% since the laws were introduced in 2014, according to Cold Chisel frontman Jimmy Barnes. 

The post-rally response from the New South Wales Government has been underwhelming at best. According to ABC, the State Government plans to respond to the calls by the end of the year.