Oztix | News | Happy Monday, Sydney: More Venues Have Scored Lockout Exemptions

A number of popular Kings Cross and CBD venues have been granted lockout exemptions, giving Sydney's nightlife a much-needed boost.

According to The Daily Telegraph, 20 venues have been approved, which includes the already-announced Burdekin Hotel, Oxford Art Factory, World Bar, Stonewall and The Basement.

The approved venues can now push their last entry from 1.30am to 2am and last drinks from 3am to 3.30am.

"The latest round of venue extensions shows how effective our campaign has been and that the government is admitting it went too far with shutting down the city," Keep Sydney Open's Tyson Koh told The Music.

"It's a positive step in the right direction and Keep Sydney Open will continue to push for more changes that restore Sydney's reputation as a destination for music after dark."

Another venue included in the list is Kings Cross Hotel and group marketing director of Solotel (the owners of the venue) Dan Lacaze welcomed the news.

"I think a vibrant night-life is a really important part of us building the culture of this great city," he said.

"What we see this as is a really positive step in the right direction — particularly for an area that has contributed for a long time to the history of the city and it's fallen on tough times.

"The area isn't what it used to be."

Though some consider the amended extra-half hour as only a minor improvement, Racing Minister Paul Toole said it will "boost Sydney's night-life and give musicians and other entertainers more opportunities to perform".

"I'm really pleased with the strong industry response to our government’s relaxation of liquor laws for the Kings Cross and CBD precincts," Toole said.

"The extended trading is a key part of our renewed focus on providing diverse night-time entertainment options while balancing the need for community safety."

See the full list of the venues granted lockout exemptions below.