The funding will go towards boosting night-time events and introducing innovative trading arrangements to help businesses grow.
Funding
- A new one-off $1 million NOW fund will support the presentation of contemporary acts and increase participation in live music events across the state.
- A one-off $500,000 grants program for seven Sydney based precincts will help individuals and organisations run street festivals, events, arts and entertainment.
The seven precincts supported through the Activate Sydney@Night initiative are Darlinghurst, Haymarket and George Street, Parramatta, Liverpool, Newtown, Opera House to Walsh Bay and Pyrmont.
A new type of pop-up liquor licence, which will be trialled in the seven precincts, will be introduced from March 2019 and help diversify the social, cultural and business offerings in the Night-Time Economy.
An expert advisory panel will be established to advise the NSW Government of ways to integrate liquor and planning approvals. The panel will look at opportunities to remove duplication, reduce red tape and make it easier to start and grow licensed businesses in NSW.
Minister for Racing Paul Toole said Sydney is one of the great world cities and has a long tradition of music and entertainment that’s to be celebrated.
"This funding could support the late-night opening of cultural institutions, including galleries and museums, pop-up venues and installations, along with food and drink options and community events," Mr Toole said.
Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said helping stage gigs, festivals and other music events in NSW will not only support a sustainable music sector but also help to contribute to a vibrant Night-Time Economy.
"Whether it’s a one-off gig, outdoor event or series of club nights, we’re eager to enable more opportunities for contemporary music across our cities and state. I encourage venues, promoters and musicians to come forward to apply for this opportunity," Mr Harwin said.
Find out more about the changes to the NSW Night-time Economy
