Sydney, these venues are now lockout free!

This story is one of many features, stories, competitions, podcasts and parties in partnership with spiced rum devotees Baron Samedi! Like us, they share a desire for a vibrant and thriving Sydney nightlife and celebrate the creativity that only comes to life after dark. Follow them on Facebook for exclusive parties, comps and news.

Today marks an exciting moment for Sydney as the NSW Government’s controversial lockout laws are officially scrapped. The changes will take place in the CBD and on Oxford St in a decision that marks the beginning of a new era for Sydneysiders. Hell yeah!

Changes include the removal of the 1.30 am last entry regulations, the extension of last drinks by half an hour (to 3.30 am) and bottle shops now staying open until midnight across NSW. 

Oh yeah, and you feel like ordering some weird-ass shot named after a *** organ after 12.00 am? Go right ahead, because all restrictions on serving cocktails, shots and drinks in a glass after midnight are out the door. That’s right, you can drink out of a glass like a grown-ass adult!

The repeals were decided after probes were made by the NSW Parliament Joint Select Committee on Sydney’s Night Time Economy last year. The laws led to 180 venues closing, and the report made by the committee found that the tough regulations were costing the economy $16 bn per year. I mean we don’t want to say we told you so…

While many great venues fell victim to the lockouts, and Kings Cross is still exempt from the repeals; it’s a step in the right direction and an awesome opportunity to get out there and support your local music scene. 

Parties are happening to celebrate the end of the lockouts at venues across Sydney, and in case the fun police have left you in a daze with no idea where to get your party fix, we’ve conveniently compiled a list of some of our favourite live music venues and nightclubs; because in the words of The Vengaboys…