Almost 12,000 people have signed a petition calling on the NSW Government to recognise that the Sydney CBD and Kings Cross lockouts are having a damaging reputation on culture, personal freedom, business and Sydney's global reputation.
The people who have signed the petition agree that our streets should be safer, but don’t agree that the way to do this is to lock people out and shut down our nightlife.
NSW Greens acting spokesperson on Liquor Laws and Member for Newtown Jenny Leong MP has tabled the petition in Parliament. The debate is schedule for Thursday afternoon.
What: Debate on the Community Petition to Keep Sydney Open
Where: NSW Parliament, Legislative Assembly
When: Thursday 12 May
Jenny Leong MP says:
“We know that it’s possible to keep Sydney’s streets safe without completely locking down our city.
“The almost 12,000 people who signed the petition are demanding smarter solutions. Alternative and integrated solutions can address alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour but allow Sydney to remain an internationally recognised, 24-hour city that encourages creativity, entrepreneurship and late-night culture.
“Why should we stop shift workers from having a late night drink to wind down? Why can’t people dance all night to their favourite tunes? We shouldn’t be punishing every person in Sydney for the bad behaviour of an incredibly small minority.
“Congratulations to everyone who signed the petition for making sure that #CasinoMike and his government pay attention.
Tyson Koh (Keep Sydney Open) says:
“The Government is keen to put this issue to rest until the findings of the review are handed down in August, but now our MPs are forced to think about the damage that has been done to jobs, businesses, the live music scene, culture, civil freedoms and Sydney's international reputation.
“People who signed this petition know that a vibrant nightlife and safe streets are not mutually exclusive. It’s time that the pollies recognised that too and adopted smarter policies.
“12,000+ signatures is huge and it proves just how dedicated and passionate Sydneysiders are about keeping our city open, while also addressing issues around anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related violence.
