The night-time economy is an integral part of the city landscape. Friday night is Hobart's busiest trading period, with Hobart's night-life serving as one of the strongest performing in Australia, according to a national report into city night time economies.
The City actively supports the growth of the night-time economy, through events such as; Dark Mofo, the Australian Wooden Boat Festival and the Taste of Summer, the City of Hobart continues to work with night-time businesses to support a vibrant and diverse night life.
Initiatives like the amplified music in Salamanca, following a successful 12-month trial, the Hello Hobart business promotion platform and support through grants and activations all play a key role in cultivating a dynamic, safe and culturally enriching night-time economy.
Hobart's 2024 financial year night time economy at a glance:
- 655 core night time economy businesses (up 3 per cent)
- 7,115 people employed in core night time economy businesses (up 17 per cent)
- $1.1 billion sales turnover in night time economy businesses (up 10 per cent)
- Friday was the busiest night for local night time economy businesses.
Through the CCCLM we have been gathering data on the night time economy since 2009. This data showcases Hobart's significant growth in this sector, including:
- Core night time economy business numbers from 2009 (453) till 2024 has grown by 44.6 per cent to 655 in 2024
- Employment in core night time economy businesses has grown by 20.7 per cent in the same time frame from 5,895 to 7,115
- Turnover in core night time economy businesses has grown by 42.3 per cent, from $551m to $1.1 billion.
One such business that is showing great confidence in Hobart's night time economy is Bar Wa Izakaya. The restaurant, a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike, has recently opened a second establishment, Lost in Asia, in Murray Street, employing 95 people and adding to the capital's hospitality industry.
The City of Hobart is a member of the Council of Capital City Lord Mayors, a peak body advocating for the interests of Australia's capital cities, which commissioned this research. The CCCLM's mission is to provide national leadership and enable effective coordination, advocacy and representation for our capital cities.
Quotes attributable to Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds:
"Hobart's night life is thriving — it's vibrant, diverse, and we're proud to support major events and local businesses that make our city come alive after dark.
"Initiatives like live music in Salamanca and Hello Hobart are helping build a night time economy that's not just busy, but culturally rich and safe.
"These figures show that Hobart's night time economy is growing — more businesses, more jobs, and more people enjoying what our city has to offer.
"We're committed to working with our community and businesses to keep Hobart's night life dynamic and welcoming for everyone."
Quotes attributable to Lost in Asia owner Travis Oddie:
"We have always had great local support, but now with so much interstate exposure and the increase of tourist trade, we have the ability to show new and unique experiences.
"With things like Dark MOFO stimulating the hospitality sector during the quieter winter months, it gives us more confidence to try new and exciting ventures rather than waiting all year to rely on the warmer times to hold us through the quieter times, with many thanks for City of Hobart's support.
"In contrast to ten years ago, we (Tasmania) have moved from being the butt of many interstate jokes to being a major destination for food, beverage and experience, and a sought-after place to visit.
"The numbers are showing that, which is exciting and inspiring."
Quotes attributable to Dr Anna Edwards, Night Time Economy expert and Principal, Ingenium Research:
"Hobart has done particularly well in this year's night time economy report.
"We've seen turnover up, jobs up and the number of businesses up.
"Clearly, cities like Hobart – and of course the states and territories that invest in their night time businesses and programs – you see that reflected in the economic activation and vibrant precincts.
"I'm thrilled to see the proactive and innovative ways Councils like the City of Hobart are using this annual data to inform activities and polices to promote their night time economies.
"Funding for events like Dark Mofo, business activation grants, promotional strategies – it's all working to support jobs and create a more vibrant night life."
The full report can be viewed here.
