The NSW Government has launched an updated strategy aimed at revitalising the state’s nightlife and supporting a thriving 24-hour economy. Building upon its initial plan from 2020, the new strategy focuses on enhancing cultural experiences, improving safety, and providing opportunities for businesses and workers to flourish during nighttime hours.
A major aspect of the updated strategy includes celebrating First Nations culture, reducing environmental impacts in urban precincts, and supporting creative and economic growth in key areas. NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues believes this renewed approach will play a vital role in shaping the state’s future and strengthening its nightlife economy.
Highlighting First Nations Voices
A priority of the updated strategy is empowering Indigenous communities to share their stories. According to Terri Janke & Company, a collaborator in this initiative, providing space for First Nations voices to be heard is essential for enriching the cultural identity of NSW’s nightlife districts.
By encouraging the inclusion of Indigenous narratives, the strategy seeks to revitalise areas where these stories have long been absent, bringing new layers of depth to the cultural and social landscape.
Expansion of Nighttime Safety Standards
To ensure that nightlife remains vibrant and secure, the government is expanding its Purple Flag Program, an international initiative that recognises districts for their excellence in nightlife safety and diversity. Currently, four areas in Sydney have achieved Purple Flag status, and the government plans to introduce the program to more districts across the state.
Supporting Live Entertainment and Nighttime Businesses
The government’s ongoing efforts to make the nightlife economy more dynamic include further reducing barriers for entertainment venues. Following the initial success of the Vibrancy Reforms in 2023, which reduced bureaucratic hurdles for nightlife venues, the next phase will focus on easing regulations for live music venues and special events later this year.
Additionally, the Live Performance Venue Accelerator Program will help smaller hospitality businesses turn their venues into vibrant live performance spaces. Businesses will gain access to workshops, acoustic evaluations, and one-on-one coaching from industry professionals, with applications starting on 30 September.
Building Vibrant Local Nightlife Hubs
The government has also launched the Uptown District Acceleration Program, which is designed to assist local business communities in becoming go-to nighttime destinations. Through workshops, mentorships, and opportunities to pitch to investors, local businesses can create thriving nighttime economies in their areas.
Statewide Commitment to a 24-Hour Economy
Since the appointment of the state’s first 24-Hour Economy Commissioner in 2021, the role has been expanded to cover all of NSW, marking the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving nightlife across the entire state. The updated strategy reflects a long-term vision of turning key districts into hubs of cultural, economic, and social activity.
By pushing forward with these new initiatives, NSW is set to create a more vibrant, inclusive, and economically sustainable 24-hour economy that benefits both local communities and visitors alike.
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