I live in Sydney and have to agree with all your coments. Back in the 80s and and early 90s I practically lived on Oxford St. I never bother going there anymore - it is just too seedy for my taste and there is an element of danger about it.

I prefer my local Pub or some of the myriad of Pubs that Newtown has to offer.

Yes, Sydney is very expensive these days. I actually paid $12 for 5 Bananas at the Supermarket yesterday!