Thousands of anti-lockout protesters reclaim Sydney streets

Thousands of Sydney-siders turned out for the 'Reclaim The Streets' anti-lockout protest at the weekend.

DJs, clubbers, hospitality workers and other members of the public joined forces for the street party to oppose the infamous laws, which prevent people entering a new venue after 1.30am or buying alcohol after 3am within a designated 'CBD entertainment precinct'.

Meeting at Hyde Park, the group marched with mobile sound systems through the affected area to Kings Cross, the city's traditional nightclub district, and on to Taylor Square. Local DJs took control of the block party when they reached their destination, while police remained in the background throughout the day.

Introduced in February last year, the lockout laws are aimed at reducing alcohol-related violence in the city, but have attracted wide criticism from the dance music community, politicians, Russell Brand and beyond for their impact on freedom, culture and business.

Earlier this year, it was reported alcohol-related violence had increased by 18 per cent in the suburb of Newtown, outside the lockout zone, since the laws were introduced.

Sydney's Star Casino remains exempt from the laws while many smaller clubs have been forced to close as a result of the laws' effect on business, including popular long-running nightclub The Spice Cellar.

For more information on Reclaim The Streets, check out the group's Facebook page.

[Image: Maggie Lai]