The Accommodation Association (AAoA) and Tourism Accommodation Australia NSW (TAA) have both welcomed the release of the Joint Select Committee’s report into Sydney’s night-time economy, that recognises the need for a wholistic range of measures if Sydney is to develop a safe and vibrant night-time economy.

“The report provides much needed recognition of the importance of a vibrant, balanced night-time economy to Sydney’s positioning as a global city. Importantly the report recognises that ‘proactive steps’ should be taken to support not only growth but innovation,” said Dean Long, CEO AAoA.

At a glance:

• The Accommodation Association (AAoA) and Tourism Accommodation Australia NSW (TAA) have welcomed the recommendations of the Joint Select Committee on Sydney's Night Time Economy.
• The Committee's report provides recognition of the importance of a safe, vibrant and balanced night-time economy to Sydney’s positioning as a global city.
• The need was expressed for adequate transport options, better surveillance and policing and appropriate lighting in the streets and parks. 
• Other recommendations included removing the 1.30am blanket lockout in the Sydney CBD, 24hr public transport on weekends and streamlining of the application process for liquor licensing and development applications.

TAA NSW CEO Michael Johnson made a submission to the Parliamentary Committee 10 August 2019, where he warned action needed to be taken to restore Sydney’s reputation as an international city.

“TAA made a submission to the Joint Select Committee and we welcome the release of its report today,” said Mr Johnson.

“It contains a number of sensible recommendations which, if implemented, will assist in enhancing Sydney’s nightlife and restoring our status as Australia’s only global city."

“These include removing the 1.30am blanket lockout in the Sydney CBD, recommendations for 24hr public transport on weekends, the streamlining of the application process for liquor licensing and development applications and improved safety measures for the city.”

Mr Long said that an exciting and diverse range of arts, cultural, sporting and music events combined with multiple hospitality options are essential in increasing international and domestic visitation to Sydney and promoting innovation.

“We welcome the Committee’s recommendations on the need for both the development of a night- time economy strategy and recognition of the need for more arts and music venues, to support demand growth," added Mr Long.

“Ultimately however, safety is paramount, in both building demand and Sydney’s reputation as an attractive, international city."

“Adequate transport options inclusive of extending the operating time of the light rail on Friday and Saturday nights, better surveillance and policing and appropriate lighting in the streets and parks will be vital in improving safety at night.”

“All these measures will need to be put in place in a cohesive manner, if we are to create a reinvigorated night-time economy that is sustainable longer term.”

Key to this will be the establishment of a governance framework which would streamline regulations, provide better control and oversight and support new businesses.

Click here to visit the AAoA website

Click here to visit the TAA website

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