Sydney residents could soon be allowed to drink alcohol in public areas, such as parks and beaches, following a potential change to current laws.
This development comes after a parliamentary inquiry considering the removal of restrictions on public alcohol consumption.
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Current NSW laws classify public footpaths and roads as alcohol-free areas, with local councils empowered to enforce their own bans on public drinking in spaces such as beaches and parks.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has shown support for this potential change.
“I’m generally on the side of believing there are just too many rules and regulations, particularly when it comes to hospitality or having fun in Sydney,” Mr Minns said.
Mr Minns questioned whether these restrictions were necessary and expressed concern that Sydneysiders are being overly restricted.
He noted that many venues across Sydney, not just in the CBD, close early in the evening, which impacts the city’s nightlife and economic potential.
Mr Minns argued that a conversation about loosening restrictions, particularly those that prevent Sydney from competing with the vibrant nightlife seen in other international cities, is “long overdue.”
“Having an economy that fires after 5pm during the week is really important for cities like Sydney, and that means we’ve got to be open to cutting red tape,” he added.
While Mr Minns acknowledged that the state government should not impose overly restrictive measures, he emphasised the value of re-evaluating the current limitations on public alcohol consumption.
“I’m biased here, I don’t drink, so I don’t have a horse in that race … but we have to be careful to have a modern workplace.”
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