Protests against lockout law and casinos in Sydney

A march of about 1,000 people passed through the centre of Sydney and stopped at the Star City casino in a protest against the city’s CBD lockout laws.

Australia.- After the New South Wales government implemented lockout regulations in Sydney, it has been criticised for not including The Star Casino at Darling Harbour and the Barangaroo development, which would feature a second casino, in the lockout zones.

Protesters question whether this was linked to the millions Star City had donated to political parties between 1998 and 2011, before donations from liquor, gaming and tobacco companies were banned by the NSW Government. Protests aren’t a novelty, as in February about 8,000 people gathered to protest against the laws.

The NSW Government introduced the lockout laws in 2014 in response to anti-social behaviour and pressure from sections of the media. Under the law, customers are not permitted in venues after 1:30am and no alcohol can be served after 3:00am.

A spokesman for the Star City casino said in a statement: “We respect the right of people to have their voices heard through peaceful gatherings.” A review of the lockout laws is due to be presented to the NSW Government next August.