Sydney, 19 October 2023: The Night Time Industries Association welcomes the suite of Vibrancy Reforms announced by the NSW Government as a positive step towards a vibrant, diverse and safe night time economy.
The Vibrancy Reforms begin to address an array of hurdles faced by industry while building upon the NSW Liquor Amendment (Night-time Economy) Act 2020. The reforms include:
- Establishing Liquor and Gaming NSW as the sole regulator of entertainment sound-related complaints for licensed premises, to streamline the complaints process from a current duplicative and multiple agency approach.
- Expanding the success of the Enmore Road Special Entertainment Precinct to other areas via a new framework for councils that makes it easier for them to deliver vibrant, safe going-out destinations supported by adequate and reliable transport and good lighting.
- Permanently replacing the rules for outdoor dining allowing venues to make the most of their outdoor space with a quicker, light-touch application process.
- Empowering the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner to develop a plan to make our State a better place to work for those who don’t work 9 to 5.
- Adopting a common-sense approach to risk in relation to liquor regulation, removing outdated rules, and beginning work to streamline planning and licensing processes. This includes improving the consultation process to make it easier for venues to open and diversify, and for communities to have their say, plus meaningful incentives for venues to feature live music and performances.
- Empowering the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner to deliver a sustainable, thriving night-time economy by making the role a statutory appointment.
Night Time Industries Association CEO Mick Gibb says the reforms are a clear statement from the NSW Government that the night time economy of NSW is a key priority for our State’s success.
“The Vibrancy Reforms announced by the NSW Government herald the beginning of a new era for the night time economy in NSW.
“This is a clear statement of intent from the State Government that the night time economy matters. This is a foundation which industry, Government, regulators and key stakeholders can build upon.
“The NTIA is delighted to see the Government stick to its election commitment and make the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner’s role a statutory appointment. This is a measure that will mean there’s a champion for the night time economy embedded into the Government so we can avoid ever going back to the devastation of lockout laws while maintaining public safety at all times.
“If NSW is going to realise the full potential of these reforms we need Local Governments to get behind the suite of options at their disposal. By creating vibrant, diverse and safe Special Entertainment Precincts a local council can shape the type of night time ecosystem it wants to create for its community.
“The night time economy regulatory landscape is a complex maze with duplication, inefficiencies and a lack of clarity. Nowhere is this more prevalent than with managing entertainment sound from licensed venues. A single regulator means venues can go on to diversify their offering without the ongoing challenges posed by a single vexatious complainant.
“The NTIA and its members look forward to engaging and consulting with Government and regulators as the reforms are implemented.”
