Industry associations, including the Australian Hotels Association NSW (AHA NSW) and Independent Bars Association (IBA) have welcomed the new NSW Labor Ministers who will have responsibility for the state’s night-time and hospitality sectors.
Member for Wyong David Harris joins new Minns Ministry as the Minister for Gaming and Racing with responsibility for the hotel sector, and Upper House MLC John Graham has been appointed Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy.
AHA NSW CEO John Whelan welcomed both Ministers, saying: “We congratulate Minister Harris on his appointment. David is no stranger to our industry, having most recently held the Shadow Tourism portfolio. He knows the important role hotels and our 75,000 staff play, particularly in regional areas of NSW and we look forward to working closely with him and his team.”
He added: “Live music plays a vital role in our pubs and John is extremely passionate on this issue – our members welcome the appointment of a dedicated Minister for live music and the night-time economy.”
Night Time Industries Association CEO Mick Gibb also welcomed Graham’s appointment, telling The Shout: “The Night Time Industries Association congratulates Minister John Graham on his appointment as Minister for the Night Time Economy and Music.
“Minister Graham has long been a staunch advocate for the night and for music. We look forward to continuing to work constructively to create a vibrant, resilient and diverse night time economy across the state.
“NSW Labor shared a bold vision for the night time economy and we were delighted to see a number of key points from the NTIA’s Election Statement adopted.
“We hope other states can look to untap the potential of their night time economies by following suit and appointing their own Ministers for the Night Time Economy.”
IBA President Karl Schlothauer also told The Shout he was looking forward to working with Graham who was a strong supporter of the industry while in opposition.
“The Independent Bars of NSW Association congratulates Minister John Graham on his appointment of Special Minster of State with the various portfolios,” Schlothauer said.
“Minister Graham has long been an advocate of the small bar scene in NSW when in opposition and now with the Labor party being in Government the IBA looks forward to working with the Minister’s office over the coming years.”
A spokesperson for ClubsNSW also welcomed Minister Harris to his new role, saying: “ClubsNSW congratulates The Honourable David Harris MP on his appointment as Minister for Gaming and Racing.
“The club industry looks forward to welcoming Minister Harris to clubs across the state and working with him and his team over the next term of Parliament.”
The NSW Labor Party, led by Chris Minns won the NSW state election that was held on Saturday 25 March. A number of industry told The Shout just after the election that they hoped the new government would work in tandem with the liquor industry.