The NSW Government has launched the pilot round of its $2m Regional Night-time Economy Program, which will support up to 10 regional business collectives in developing thriving, vibrant local economies day and night.
The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner engaged with local businesses, councils and industry representatives in regional areas to better understand their specific needs, challenges and priorities.
Michael Rodrigues, the NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner said: “It’s been a pleasure to visit the different corners of the State since our remit was expanded to include the regions.
“There are so many great stories, places and events across the State. And while the locale may change, the common thread is groups of businesses who are passionate about elevating their nightlife and the visitor experience.
“This new program has been designed after extensive consultation to understand how we can best enable the night-time economies of our regions. My thanks to the many councils who and local business chambers who have informed the process.”
The capacity-building grant program aims to support groups of local businesses in regional NSW to collaborate and strengthen their local economies. It will provide tailored bootcamps, funding and ongoing support to help business collectives identify opportunities and deliver initiatives that enhance activity and vibrancy from day into night.
Business NSW Executive Director, Regional NSW and the Visitor Economy Paula Martin said: “Vibrant regional towns are the lifeblood to local job creation, career pathways for youth and enhanced lifestyle for regional centres. Businesses tell us that one of the barriers to attracting workers to regional centres is the level of activity offered by town centres in the area of entertainment, culture and arts both during the day and at night.
“Programs that advance the activation of town centres helps to stimulate small business growth and in turn jobs for workers close to where they live. Importantly, active towns create a local visitor economy that benefits all industry sectors.”
The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner’s 24-Hour Economy Strategy and Vibrancy Reform work also recognise the importance of uplifting regional night-time economies across the state.
For more information and to apply, visit: The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner website.
The Regional Night-time Economy Program is open for applications and will close on 20 November.