Monday 23 April 2018

I remain concerned that Sydney’s late night scenes and opportunities for emerging performance artists are dwindling and I’ve asked to meet with the minister responsible for licensing laws.

The government has promised measures to improve vibrancy through its Night Time Economy Taskforce but there has been little action. The half hour grace period allowing live music venues to accept patrons until 2am and cease alcohol service at 3.30am fails to provide the boost needed.

I continue to argue that the 1.30am lockout should not apply to well managed venues; measures like saturation zones, late night transport and renewable late night licences will prevent violence and anti-social behaviour. Sydney’s economic prosperity will suffer if we let the city become boring, cultureless and lifeless at night.