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NSW BRINGS THE BUZZ BACK TO NIGHTLIFE, LIFTS COVID-ERA BAN

a person sitting in front of a store

NSW Brings the Buzz Back to Nightlife, Lifts COVID-Era Ban

Outdated restrictions, like the ban on standing and sipping a beer outside a pub, are getting the boot as the NSW government slashes red tape to revive the state’s nightlife.

“For too long, Sydney’s nightlife has been strangled by red tape,” NSW Premier Chris Minns declared. “We’re fixing this by removing restrictions, revitalising entertainment venues, tackling the housing crisis head-on, and helping the city get back on its feet.”

“Having an economy that fires up at 5 pm during the week is critical for global cities like Sydney,” added the Premier.

‘Ban Has No Place in 2024’

The rule that patrons must be seated while enjoying a drink outdoors was introduced during the COVID pandemic to promote outdoor dining. However, post-pandemic, these rules have been a thorn in the side of the hospitality sector. Around 145 licensed venues, including 60 pubs, clubs, and small bars, are currently affected by the ban, which is now being scrapped.

Changes to the Liquor Act will require licensed venues to meet safety and compliance standards but will no longer enforce a blanket condition that patrons must sit down to consume alcohol in outdoor areas.

John Graham, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy stated, “Adults should be trusted to choose whether they stand or sit while having a drink,” emphasising that the government is “getting the social scene back on its feet in Sydney and right across NSW.”

a man and woman holding beer

NSW’s Nightlife Vibrancy Reforms

The lifting of the ban on standing and drinking outside licensed venues is part of phase two of the government’s Vibrancy Reforms.

Phase one included:

  • Permanent Outdoor Dining Provisions: Temporary measures allowing outdoor dining were made permanent, giving venues greater flexibility.

  • Noise Complaint Reforms: The government ended the practice of single neighbour noise complaints shutting down local pubs and licensed venues.

  • Streamlined Event Approvals: The Open Streets program was introduced to facilitate easier activation of streets for festivals and events.

  • Expanded Special Entertainment Precincts: Local councils were empowered to modify noise and opening hour regulations in designated areas to support live entertainment and nightlife.

  • Incentives for Live Music: Venues offering live music were given extended trading hours and significant reductions in liquor licence fees.

  • Easier Pathways for Major Events: New rules simplified the process for extending trading hours during significant events such as the Olympics and World Cups.

“Our government is making a stand to elevate NSW back to its rightful place as number one for having a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive night-time economy,” said Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris. “We’ll get there with common-sense regulations that support businesses and communities to enliven our city.”

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