Kings Cross ID Scanners, Anti-Discrimination Bill, Graffiti Madness, William Street Laneway Festival and Pets at Northcott Day

People who cause a public nuisance or create public safety risks will be banned from large venues in Kings Cross for up to 12 months under the Liquor Amendment (Kings Cross Plan of Management) Bill. Intoxicated persons kicked out of one venue will not be able to enter another. While I support getting troublemakers out of the precinct, orders will be enforced through ID scanners which will operate at times when residents go out to eat lunch or dinner at the local pub including weeknight evenings and weekends in the day. I told Parliament requiring ID scanners outside peak times will invade locals’ privacy, harm good businesses and do nothing to curb the violence. I also called on the government to take action on Backpacker’s Hostels, which have become “unofficial” beer barns throughout Kings Cross. My speech is available HERE.

I introduced my Anti-Discrimination Amendment (Private Educational Authorities) Bill to remove exemptions that allow private schools, colleges and universities to discriminate against students because they are gay, transgender, pregnant or have a disability. I shared with Parliament stories of discrimination from LGBTI students at religious schools and called on the Government to at least grant members a conscience vote. I’m still taking submissions on the bill and my discussion paper (available HERE). You can watch my speech HERE.

Graffiti laws fail to differentiate between ugly, violent and obscene tags and street art. The recent Graffiti Control Amendment Bill makes rainbow chalkings and possibly even hopscotch without council permission illegal! I told Parliament we should look at ways to make temporary markings and street art that is supported by the community lawful. My speech is available HERE.

Food, fun, drinks, deals and events are on offer at the William Street Laneway Festival this Saturday the 28th of September. The annual William Street Festival celebrates its 5th birthday in 2013! After 4 successful years with the support of Woollarah Council, City of Sydney, and the local retailer community. Further Information HERE.

Have a great week,

Alex Greenwich MP
Independent Member for Sydney

PS. Don’t forget Pets at Northcott in Ward Park, Surry Hills, this Saturday  from 11am - 3pm – always a great day