The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has endorsed the release of the NSW Productivity and Equality Commission’s Review of Regulatory Barriers Impeding a Vibrant 24-Hour Economy, describing it as a critical step toward creating a more dynamic and sustainable night-time economy.
NTIA CEO Mick Gibb said the report highlights the duplication and inefficiencies in regulatory systems that the association and its members have long argued are inhibiting investment and innovation across New South Wales.
The report makes several recommendations welcomed by the NTIA, including:
- Streamlining liquor licensing and planning approvals to remove duplication, potentially saving businesses up to $90m annually in costs and delays.
- Reviewing the six-hour closure policy for liquor sales.
- Expanding Special Entertainment Precincts, following the success of Sydney’s Enmore Road, where reforms have enabled more venues to open later.
- Investing in safety and transport measures such as Purple Flag accreditation and trialling night-time host programs.
- Modernising the policing of nightlife to focus on community safety and precinct wellbeing, rather than regulatory enforcement.
Gibb said the report’s findings align with what operators report on the ground are saying to the association.
“The report confirms what venues tell us every day, that the current licensing and planning systems start with a ‘no’ and force operators to work backwards. Streamlining these systems will reduce costs, cut delays, and build upon the progress made so far through industry and Government collaboration.
“When you look interstate and around the world you see police playing a very different role in the night-time economy. They aren’t patrolling the streets en masse in ‘public order squad’ uniforms or intervening in what genres of music can be played at a venue. They’re playing a less visible supporting role that still maintains safety without hindering vibrancy.
“We should be looking at what we can borrow from other jurisdictions that strikes the right balance between safety and vibrancy. Nightlife hosts working in key nightlife districts are a great example of this to help people find where to go, how to get home or even get help if in need.
“This review sets out a clear pathway to reduce red tape, support live music and entertainment, improve transport and safety, modernise policing approaches, and build stronger precincts.
“The NTIA looks forward to working closely with the government to turn these recommendations into action.”