Tough new laws to combat alcohol-related violence will be introduced to NSW parliament on Thursday.
The measures, announced by NSW Premier Nathan Rees, include a freeze on 24-hour licences and a limit of 18 hours on new licences.
Patrons of pubs and clubs identified as hot spots for violence face a 2am lockout, a limit on the number of drinks they can buy and the use of plastic cups after midnight.
Shots will be banned after midnight and serving will stop 30 minutes before closing time.
NSW Minister for Gaming and Racing Kevin Greene will introduce the bill.
He said it also included new “tip out” powers for police to target people drinking in alcohol free zones and confiscate their drinks.
“The community is fed up with people who think that it’s okay to get drunk and take part in abusive, offensive or violent behaviour,” he said.
“Everyone has a role to play in reducing alcohol-related violence, publicans, bar staff, police and especially people who engage in unsafe drinking.
“We’ll be looking at how they (the laws) impact over the summer, if there is a need to do more then we’ll take further action.”
The laws, which are proposed to start on December 1, have been backed by police, doctors, the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) and Clubs NSW.
The list of 16 venues identified as hot spots includes the Orient Hotel in the Rocks, Scruffy Murphy’s on George Street, Cargo Bar on King Street Wharf, plus the Coogee Bay and Bondi hotels.
The list also includes a number of pubs and clubs in Sydney’s west including the Roxy Hotel and PJ Gallaghers in Parramatta and the Penrith Panthers club.
Also on the list is Iguana Joes nightclub in Gosford.
