Peeps in Sydney are getting super bleak at the “controversial” lockout laws that have the city sleeping by 3:30am. According to the organisations, more than 15 000 people took to the streets on Sunday to take a stand against the laws which prohibit patrons from entering venues after 1:30am and serving alcohol after 3 am.

The lockout laws were introduced in 2014 by the New South Wales government to curb Sydney’s alleged alcohol-fuelled violence problem. Yet opponents of the laws are saying that the lockouts are destroying businesses, the city’s nightlife culture and infringing of individual liberties.

Many think pieces have been written on the so-called “nanny state,” nights out have been cancelled and kebabs shops have been shut down.

Young and old people, along with dogs and children were in the crowd, which slowly marched along Elizabeth Street toward Hyde Park. Many people had placards, some targeting the city’s casino — which sits outside the regulation — and the New South Wales state Premier Mike Baird.

Hyde Park transformed into a festival for two hours, as rain sprinkled down on dancing protestors and  DJs from local label Future Classic played. Koh reiterated on stage the protest was not only against the lockout laws, but also to celebrate Sydney.

Local band Art vs Science performed a cover of the Beastie Boys classic “(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party).”

Today was democracy in process. It was a peaceful demonstration, full of colour and culture, full of what makes our city great.

It was just amazing for me to see people come together, not only fighting against the lockouts, but fighting for the cultural vibrancy of this city.

No wonder there are so many Aussies here.

[source: mashable]