curfew – Sounds of Oz

The New South Wales government has just worked out what Melbourne realised last year: 2 am pub and club lockouts don’t reduce alcohol-related violence.

So they’ve scrapped the plan they brought in four months ago, and are hoping to introduce a “safety star rating system” instead. It will see each venue given a star rating so the public could make more informed choices. Minister for Gaming and Racing Kevin Greene will present a discussion paper to cabinet next week. From there it’ll be debated within the government before receiving comments from the hotel industry and concerned members of the public.

Honestly I’m not sure this solution is going to help curb the violence, but it will probably make sure that people like myself don’t get stuck in the middle of it!

Image source: Orin Optiglot @ Flickr

Melbourne is regarded as something like Australia’s version of New York: a city that never sleeps with an exciting music and arts scene. That reputation is under threat though as the state government plans to trial a 2 am curfew

So what does it all mean? Basically you won’t be able to enter a bar in Melbourne after 2 am. If you’re already inside that’s fine, but don’t even think about ducking outside for a ciggie or a quick chat on your mobile phone.

The government says the move will curb alcohol-fuelled violence by reducing the amount of bar hoppers circulating the city. Others say it’s just going to spoil everybody’s fun. Personally some of the drunkest folks I’ve seen are the ones too intoxicated to move from one pub to the next!

If you think John Brumby and his ministers are a bunch of killjoys join the party protest on the steps of Parliament House. Just head to Spring Street at 11 pm on May 30 to have a great time and make a difference!

Image source: Robyn Jay @ Flickr

Tag: curfew

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