The South Australian Government has flagged another review of the Late Night Trading Code of Practice, including the 3am lockout that stops nightclubs, music venues and other late-night businesses admitting or readmitting patrons between 3.01am and 7am.
Consumer and Business Affairs Minister Michael Brown told The Advertiser the code will be reviewed again later in 2026, with feedback sought from law enforcement, health providers and licence holders, though he has not committed to removing the restriction.
Venues can keep serving people already inside during their authorised hours, so the rule limits movement between venues rather than setting a uniform closing time, and SkyCity Adelaide Casino and restaurant and catering licensees are excluded.
Late-night operators have pushed for repeal for years, and the SA Alliance for Night-Time Industries proposed in July a monitored 12-month transition that would track violent incidents and alcohol-related hospital presentations while keeping other safety requirements.
The restriction was kept after a 2023 review, when South Australia Police backed it, and amendments covering drink marshals, beverage restrictions, metal detectors and CCTV took effect on 1 November 2023.
