Melbourne's clubs win exemptions from new lock-out rules

Monday saw the start of a new 2am lock-out rule in Melbourne, Australia, aimed at detering growing late night disorder. But many clubs have applied for - and been granted - exemptions.

The three-month trial means that clubbers won't be admitted or re-admitted to clubs after 2am. The aim is to keep the streets quieter and avoid disorder in queues. However the state licensing authorities have agreed to exemptions for 112 venues after mediation talks in Melbourne this week.

Liquor Licensing Victoria said that exemptions were granted because the alternative was to contest the matter at a tribunal and risk losing the right to impose the ban at all. The exemptions carry a number of conditions which will stop people milling in the streets, although queues of patrons might still be seen outside clubs with exemptions. Exempted clubs have also agreed to provide extra security, no passouts, no use of footpaths around the venues and no promotions to encourage patronage after 2am.

For the rest of this item from Melbournbe Herald Sun, click here