The signatories here do not support the introduction on legislation to increase fees for licences after 3am or reduced trading hours of licensed premises. We agree that we legislate to reduce the risk of violence but not at the cost of a vibrant part of our culture especial when the proposed legislation will not adequately resolve the issue.

We demand smarter solutions — a holistic and lateral approach to preventing assaults which examines transport, CCTV, tougher sentencing, density and diversity of licensed premises, venue management, culture as a placating tool and the tendency towards violence among certain groups of individuals.

The music community and law-abiding citizens are not the right people to punish for assaults on the street. Well-run venues are safe and they make a large contribution to our reputation as one of the world’s great entertainment cities.

Safety is a goal shared by everyone. It’s important to remember that the main beneficiaries are the very people who wish to go out. We believe that safety and late-night socialising aren’t mutually exclusive. With considered, innovative policies we can achieve a desired outcome together and Keep Canberra Open.