NSW govt invests $1.5 million in night-time economy

The NSW government has announced a $1.5million Activate Sydney@Night initiative that includes a new type of pop-up liquor licence. 

The pop-up liquor licence will be trialled in seven precincts -  Darlinghurst, Haymarket and George Street, Parramatta, Liverpool, Newtown, Opera House to Walsh Bay, and Pyrmont - and introduced from March.

It dovetails with a one-off $500,000 grants program for the seven precincts aimed at helping individuals and organisations run street festivals, events, arts and entertainment.

Minister for Racing Paul Toole said: “This funding could support the late-night opening of cultural institutions, including galleries and museums, pop-up venues and installations, along with food and drink options and community events."

Toole added that a three-month blitz on outdated licence conditions, such as limitations on types of music that can be performed at a venue, is currently underway. 

“There might be conditions remaining on some licences that no longer serve a purpose, so affected venues have the opportunity to have them removed, free of charge,” 

An advisory panel will also be established to advise the NSW government on ways to integrate liquor and planning approvals.

The panel will look at opportunities to remove duplication, reduce red tape and make it easier to start and grow licensed businesses in NSW.

Experts will also look at ways to encourage more roof top bars across Sydney. 

“Sydney has some great roof-top bars, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Let’s take full advantage of the best cityscape and outlook in the world – if you’ve got it, flaunt it,” Toole said.

Toole added that Activate Sydney@Night was aimed stimulating the night-time economy in Sydney.

“Sydney is one of the great world cities and has a long tradition of music and entertainment that’s to be celebrated," he said.  

“We’ve developed a package with two major elements. Firstly, we’re putting $1.5 million towards boosting night-time events, in particular live music, and secondly we’re cutting red tape and introducing innovative trading arrangements to enable businesses to thrive.”

Also launched today was a new one-off $1 million Music NOW fund that will support the presentation of contemporary acts and increase participation in live music events across the State. 

Arts Minister Don Harwin said:  “Helping stage gigs, festivals and other music events in NSW will not only support a sustainable music sector but also help to contribute to a vibrant night-time economy.

“Whether it’s a one-off gig, outdoor event or series of club nights, we’re eager to enable more opportunities for contemporary music across our cities and State. I encourage venues, promoters and musicians to come forward to apply for this opportunity.”