Huge update for beer and schnitty lovers as ‘head-scratching’ law scrapped

A law that has often left Australians in one state scratching their heads is finally set to be ditched.

It’s the antiquated rule that has stopped thousands across NSW from enjoying a quiet beer and a schnitzel.

But the Minns government, as part of what it calls a war on red tape, is about to rip it up.

The state government has vowed to overturn the “5km rule” – described as “head-scratching” and “pointless” – which has in the past deterred people from entering their local club.

Under current legislation, in order to enter a club, anyone living within a 5km radius must sign up to be a member, demonstrate membership to another club, or be signed in by a member.

Night Time Economy minister John Graham said that the rule was preventing people from having a good time for “no discernible” reason, with the reforms to be introduced to parliament next month.

The legislation has stopped thousand from enjoying a quiet schnitty. Picture: Supplied.

“It has been an unwanted rite of passage for so many to be stuck in bureaucratic limbo over membership at the entry to a club when all you want to do is go inside for a drink and a meal,” he said.

The government describes the rule unnecessary and says it has over the years discouraged locals who want to enjoy a meal and a drink.

And it says removing it will pull more punters through the door and pump money into local clubs.

But, it says, it won’t stop clubs from trying to sign up members by offering incentives and access to facilities like gyms and swimming pools.

Minister for the night time economy John Graham. Picture: NewsWire/Damian Shaw.

“We have long advocated for this change, so this is a fantastic outcome for our industry,” ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant said.

“It’s about providing clubs with the choice, and for many clubs – particularly golf and sailing clubs who have social membership caps – this will make a huge difference.”

The Minns government touted it as the next round of “commonsense vibrancy reforms”, having previously reformed rules around outdoor dining, noise complaints and expanded special entertainment precincts.