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One-punch assaults: tough new laws outlined by Barry O'Farrell | |
(about 1 hour later) | |
The New South Wales premier, Barry O'Farrell, says his government will introduce an eight-year mandatory minimum sentence for one-punch offences committed under the influence of drugs or alcohol. | |
"We are sending a clear message about alcohol and drug-induced violence," he told reporters in Sydney on Tuesday. | |
He said parliament would be recalled early to pass new measures including a one-punch law that would have a 20-year maximum penalty, rising to a 25 years where drugs and alcohol are involved. | |
Additionally, maximum penalties for serious assaults involving drugs and alcohol will increase by two years and mandatory minimums will also apply. | |
O'Farrell said 1.30am lock-outs would be introduced at licensed premises across an expanded Sydney CBD precinct and there would be an end to drinks at 3am. | |
"This is about trying to send a very clear message to the industry that yes, you can continue to trade after 3 o'clock, but drinks will cease at 3 o'clock." | |
The premier said there would also be a new statewide closing time of 10pm for bottle shops. | |
"Licensed venues alone are not the source of all the alcohol problems across NSW, bottle shops have to play their role as well." | |
O'Farrell said there would also be an increase in the maximum penalty for the possession or illegal use of steroids, from two years to 25 years, in line with Victoria. | |
On-the-spot fines issued by police to deal with disorderly behaviour in entertainment hotspots will also be raised. | |
The maximum fines will rise to $1,100, from $200. | |
The premier said the government would also introduce a multimillion-dollar community awareness program aimed at curbing binge drinking and alcohol-fuelled violence. | |
Free buses would also run every 10 minutes from Kings Cross to make it easier for people to get home after a night out. | |
Periodic risk-based licences will be imposed for licensed venues across NSW and there will be a freeze on liquor licences for new pubs and clubs in the expanded Sydney CBD precinct. | |
O'Farrell has come under intense pressure in recent weeks to act against alcohol-fuelled violence after the deaths of 18-year-olds Thomas Kelly and Daniel Christie, who were victims of one-punch attacks at Kings Cross. |