Here’s what Sydney’s new nightlife reforms mean for locals

WITH Time Out Sydney Future Shaper Mike Rodriguez was appointed NSW’s first-ever 24-hour Economic Commissioner (and Sydney’s Night Mayor) back in 2021, the Harbor City’s night-time economy has received much more attention. And that focus appears to be paying off, with vigorous government reforms removing some of the major barriers that have given Sydney nightlife its less than stellar reputation. Earlier this month, a second package of reforms to Sydney’s nightlife and cultural landscape was announced – with a focus on creating communities “where culture thrives”. after dark the same as during the day.”

New and existing dedicated entertainment venues in Sydney (AKPs) will be at the center of these reforms, serving as testing grounds for building communities and economies that thrive after dark. One of the key points here is to ensure that residents and business owners of Sydney SEPs have a clear understanding of what it means to be a SEP: namely, that they are entertainment areas. The new reform, called the “eyes wide open” clause, ensures that people purchase of real estate in certain SEPs will be duly informed of the regulations in this area.

“People moving to established entertainment Zone will now do this with eyes wide open when reviewing property search documents, and we expect that over time this will reduce conflicts between neighbors and properties.” explains Music and Night-Time Economy Minister John Graham.

“We are regenerating Sydney and regional centers across the state, neighborhood by neighborhood, and giving councils the tools to deliver a dedicated entertainment district model.”

TThe government will also remove what they called “baffling” restrictions on licensed venues, which include things like anti-entertainment provisions and rules regarding what genre of music can be played on site. Plus, The Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy will be given more powers to support live music and venues through noise complaints and other disputes.

Over the past few years, the first phase of reform has made temporary outdoor dining areas (introduced in response to Covid) permanent, increased incentives for live music venues, and expanded the Open Streets program (which is encouraging more street parties across the city). , and the rules regarding noise complaints have changed (so one noise complaint can no longer lead to the closure of an establishment).

The second package of reforms began to be implemented earlier this year. ending the ridiculous standing-while-drinking rule being the first taxi driver to fail, etc.it has outdated registration rules for RSLs and clubs across the state canceled earlier this month. The “eyes wide open” clause will further reduce red tape by ensuring designated Sydney overnight destinations are protected from backlash.

YoYou can find out more about the government’s plans to improve Sydney’s nightlife at our in-depth interview with NSW Premier Chris Minns. Interested in finding out how your business can benefit from Sydney’s growing 24-hour economy? Attend this event next week.

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