Help Shape the Future of NSW’s Night Time Economy
The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure is seeking feedback on the Cultural State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE). This is a crucial opportunity for those in the Arts, Retail, Tourism, and Hospitality industries to shape policies that directly impact the night-time economy. Submissions are open until 7 February 2025, so don’t miss this chance to share your insights and help drive positive change.
The night-time economy is an essential part of NSW’s cultural and economic identity. In 2023, the NSW Government made an election commitment to support music venues, extend trading hours, and encourage outdoor performances through the development of a Cultural SEPP. Building on the government’s Vibrancy Reforms, the proposed SEPP aims to foster a thriving 24-hour economy by addressing the needs of cultural, creative, and hospitality sectors.
The Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) outlines proposed changes to planning rules that could have a significant impact on the way businesses and venues operate. Key changes include expanding non-refusal standards for entertainment uses and introducing new model conditions of consent for entertainment venues. The EIE also suggests increasing development standards for temporary structures at community events, allowing more events in major precincts, and supporting iconic events like Vivid Sydney with exempt development standards for temporary light and sound installations.
Outdoor dining and food trucks are also a focus, with proposals to simplify outdoor dining approvals, investigate measures for food businesses using shipping containers, and improve provisions for food trucks in residential and conservation zones. Additional changes to business and industrial codes include allowing changes of use in enterprise zones and introducing standards to retrofit bike rails and bike lockers in existing buildings.
The department has also introduced two new guidelines for feedback: the Guideline for Late Night Hours of Operation for Food and Drink Premises and the Guide to Planning Pathways for Community Events. These guidelines are designed to provide clarity and support for businesses navigating planning pathways.
The proposed reforms aim to create a more streamlined planning system that supports the night-time economy while encouraging creative and cultural growth. By contributing your feedback, you can help ensure these changes address the needs and challenges of your industry, paving the way for a more vibrant and dynamic NSW.
Submissions are open until 7 February 2025, and the department is encouraging participation from industry professionals, businesses, and community members.
We strongly encourage our NSW members to make a submission and share their insights. Your input is invaluable in shaping policies that will support and strengthen the Arts, Retail, Tourism, and Hospitality industries. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for NSW’s night-time economy.
