Strip club owner fails to overturn ban entering high-risk venues in Kings Cross, including his own clubs

Twelve-month venue restriction

The NSW tribunal upheld the liquor authority’s decision to prevent Papadopoulos from entering or remaining in high-risk venues across Kings Cross and the Sydney CBD entertainment precincts for 12 months. Sydney Elements and Showgirls, both owned by Papadopoulos, are classified as high-risk venues, the tribunal heard. The order therefore prevents him from entering his own businesses.

Allegations before the tribunal

The tribunal heard that an alleged victim was found inside Sydney Elements while employees were working, before the club had opened, and was confronted by Papadopoulos. Other alleged offences involved the same employee and another worker at the club.

Papadopoulos was also charged later that month over other alleged incidents at the club and at his home. In a police interview on 15 March, he made no admissions, and said CCTV footage was “AI-generated and a conspiracy”, the tribunal found.

Owner challenged the order

In submissions to the authority, Papadopoulos said he had pleaded not guilty to the alleged offences and was entitled to the presumption of innocence. In his review application, he said the ban had “an immediate and substantial impact on my livelihood” because it restricted access to venues connected to his work and business interests. He also sought permission to rely on CCTV footage, photographs, communications and witness evidence.

Family finances not established

Senior tribunal member Dr Thalia Gordon heard that Papadopoulos said both venues depended heavily on his attendance and management, and that his family also relied on their income. Gordon said he had not provided “logically probative evidence” of his family’s financial reliance on the businesses.