One-punch laws in place by weekend

The NSW government wants new laws aimed at reducing alcohol-fueled violence in place by the weekend

On Thursday parliament will consider laws that will introduce mandatory eight-year minimum sentences for those convicted of drunken "one punch" assaults that result in death.

Other measures to be considered include 1.30am lock-outs and 3am final drinks, removing a clause allowing alcohol to be used to mitigate sentences, higher fines for drunk and disorderly offences, stronger powers for police to order drug and alcohol tests and 10pm bottle shop closing times.

New boundaries for a central Sydney entertainment precinct and special conditions for licences in this area will also be considered.

In late February mandatory minimum sentences for other types of drunken assaults will be debated.

"This is a measured response to a very serious problem," the premier told reporters on Tuesday.

The government wants to "send the strongest possible message" to people who think they "can become intoxicated on drugs and alcohol ... and get away" with assaults.

The laws were announced following an outcry over the deaths of teenagers Thomas Kelly and Daniel Christie, who were both killed by one-punch assaults in Sydney's Kings Cross.

Legal, community and professional groups have expressed concern about the laws, including that they will unfairly target indigenous people.

But Mr O'Farrell said that wouldn't be the case.

Source:  news.com.au - 28 January 2014