It’s been a long time coming but Sydney’s lockout laws are finally getting rolled back in early 2020. 

The NSW Government has today announced that the state’s controversial lockout laws will be repealed in Sydney’s CBD (excluding Kings Cross) from January 14. The change removes 1:30am last entry in the CBD and Oxford St after five long years. Duck out for that dart, take all the phone calls your heart desires, check on your friend and make sure they get in the right Uber and – believe it or not – you will be able to get back into the venue. 

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said: “Sydney has transformed dramatically over recent years, and we need to ensure we have a strong and vibrant night-time economy that reflects our position as Australia’s only truly global city.” Thankfully, after only five years of complaints and insight from industry leaders, experts and organisations on the debilitating effects of lockout laws on Sydney’s once-vibrant nightlife, the government has tuned in and handed down a win worth drinking to (although last drink legislation remains intact so be sure to hit the bar before 3:30am). The government has committed to reviewing the changes in 12 months.