The NSW Government and police have been working together with hospitality venues to ensure excellent outcomes for patrons enjoying the state’s hospitality and entertainment offerings.
The Minns Labor Government’s outdoor dining reforms have so far assisted 580 businesses across the state to take advantage of the relaxed rules to host patrons outside. They were part of the vibrancy reforms rolled out in 2023.
The reforms include saving venues time and money by streamlining application processes for the use of footpaths and public spaces, as well as the removal of fees for temporary approval reapplications.
Rules preventing patrons from standing while drinking outside have also been scrapped.
Venues looking to use footpaths and public spaces are now able to make an application through their local council, which will automatically notify Liquor & Gaming NSW (L&GNSW).
Prior to this change, venues were required to apply to their councils for a development application before going through a 30-day consultation process with L&GNSW.
Alfresco dining and outdoor events such as markets and festivals have boomed since the reform.
John Graham, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, said that having hundreds more businesses now taking advantage of outdoor spaces is an excellent result for NSW.
“This is a great example of the way we’re cutting red tape and reducing costs for business to bring the fun back to Sydney.
“When you combine the increased outdoor dining, the big boost in live music venues and the rising number of special entertainment precincts – you can see that we’re leaving the lockout era well and truly behind.”
David Harris, Minister for Gaming and Racing said venues have welcomed these reforms making it easier to optimise their space, add value to a venue’s offering and increase revenue.
“It’s great to see the positive impacts for premises and patrons alike, while boosting employment opportunities and the NSW economy.”
Business Sydney CEO Paul Nicolaou said the practical reforms are helping hospitality venues thrive and are a credit to the Minns Government.
“By cutting red tape and making it easier for venues to activate outdoor spaces, the government is supporting cafes, bars and restaurants to welcome more customers and create vibrant street life across our communities.
“These changes are a real boost for the hospitality and tourism sectors. Outdoor dining enhances the visitor experience, encourages people to stay longer and spend more, and helps create the lively atmosphere that makes our cities and neighbourhoods attractive destinations for both locals and visitors.”
To find out more visit the Hospitality Concierge. More information on eligibility and how to apply can be found here.
Meanwhile, on 21 March this year the Sydney City Liquor Accord (SCLA) donated a generous $20k to Police Legacy at the annual Blue Ribbon Ball.
The NSW Police Legacy, established almost forty years ago, supports police families who have lost a loved one. The Blue Ribbon Ball is its largest fundraising event.
Over nine hundred guests attended the event, with the SCLA and the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) NSW long term sponsors.
Steven Speed, SCLA chairperson believes NSW police force officers do an excellent job working proactively with patrons and licensed premises.
“They make sure patrons have a safe and enjoyable night out, so when it comes to supporting NSW police officers and their families in times of need, it was a no brainer for us to support Police Legacy,” says Speed.
“As the largest liquor accord in NSW it’s important we step up when it counts.”
AHA NSW CEO John Whelan agreed.
“Safety is a vital part of a vibrant night-time economy and hoteliers and police work hand-in-hand to keep venues and patrons safe,” he said.
