Getting NSW Nightlife Back on Its Feet

Outdated conditions that force patrons to be seated while drinking outside a licenced premises will be removed as part of the Minns Labor Government’s crusade to strip back useless red tape and rebuild nightlife and vibrancy across the state. 

A blanket ban on standing and drinking as part of approvals for outdoor dining on footpaths in front of licensed venues will be scrapped.

The rule was part of COVID-era provisions to encourage outdoor dining and the use of footpaths. It is currently being used by around 145 licensed venues, including 60 clubs, pubs and small bars. 

In future, the simple approval pathway under the Liquor Act will no longer have a blanket condition that stipulates patrons must be sitting down to consume alcohol in outdoor areas. 

Individual venues will still need to meet safety and compliance standards. 

The reform is part of a suite of changes that will form the NSW Government’s second tranche of Vibrancy Reforms. 

The first tranche: 

• Made temporary outdoor dining provisions permanent 
• Ended single neighbour noise complaints against licensed venues 
• Made it easier to activate streets for festivals and events (Open Streets program) and a regulatory model that allows streamlined approvals for repeat events (Permit, Plug, Play) 
• Expanded Special Entertainment Precincts that empower local councils to change the rules around noise and opening hours in a designated area to support live entertainment and nightlife 
• Increased incentives for live music and live performance, with two hours extended trading and an 80% reduction in liquor licence fees for licensed venues offering live music and performance 
• Easier pathways for extended trading hours for major events like the Olympics and World Cups. 

“For too long Sydney’s nightlife has been strangled by red tape,” said Premier of NSW Chris Minns.

“We’re fixing this by removing the restrictions destroying entertainment venues, tackling the housing crisis head on and helping the city get back on its feet. 

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

Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said the Government is committed to getting the social scene back on its feet in Sydney and right across NSW. 

“A blanket ban on standing with a drink in hand is a red tape hangover that has no place in 2024,” he said. 

“Adults should be trusted to choose whether they stand or sit while having a drink.” 

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris agreed.

“Our government is making a stand to elevate NSW back to its rightful place as no.1 for having a vibrant, diverse and inclusive night-time economy. 

“We’ll get there with common-sense regulations that support businesses and communities to enliven our city.”