Night-time economy

We’re working to promote and develop a vibrant, diverse and inclusive 24-hour economy for our city.

Starting a night-time business

Operating a business at night involves unique considerations such as liquor licensing, understanding land use zoning, permitted building uses and connecting with the local community. We can provide advice to existing businesses experiencing difficulties or those seeking to extend their trading hours or diversify their offer. We also encourage operators considering starting a night-time business to get in touch with the business concierge or night-time city team.

Business concierge service

Open from 9.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

: 02 9265 9333
: [email protected]

Why we’re doing this

Our 24-hour economy focus emerged when we consulted with local communities about making Sydney a sustainable global city by 2030.

Sydney has the largest 24-hour economy and the biggest number of visitors in Australia – as well as the country’s densest residential and commercial districts.

Successful global cities have a strong cultural life and support a vibrant, diverse and inclusive 24-hour economy.

What we know

More diverse options lead to more connected and resilient communities, help create more inclusive nightlife, improve safety and reduce crime.
People have told us they want better public transport and a city with diverse and exciting night-time economy including events and activities for people of all ages and interests – they don't want a city that’s unsafe or shuts down as soon as the sun goes down.
Sydney’s night-time economy is critical to our city’s future – it generates more than $4.7 billion in revenue every year, with more than 5,900 businesses employing more than 34,000 people.

Our goal is to provide clear direction for Sydney’s 24-hour economy, balancing all the factors. The interests of everyone – local business owners, our increasing resident population and visitors – are being considered. Public safety is paramount.

Our strategy and action plan

The OPEN Sydney strategy and action plan 2013–2030 is our vision for the long-term development of Sydney at night.

The strategy addresses the interests of everyone – our increasing resident population, local business owners and visitors.

Strategies & action plans
OPEN Sydney: Strategy and action plan 2013–2030
Future directions for the city at night.
Published 25 March 2013

What we’re doing

A new category of trading hours was established for unlicensed shops, like bookstores and clothing shops, and businesses like gyms, dry cleaners and hairdressers.

This allows businesses to trade up to 24 hours a day in the city centre and other busy inner-city areas, until 2am on local centre main streets, and until midnight in other areas.

Later trading hours for these types of businesses attracts a wider range of people out at night for different activities, helping create a safer and more balanced night-time economy. Diversity and vibrancy at night is important to ensuring the success of Sydney’s 24-hour economy.
A new 24-hour trading area with an art, cultural and entertainment focus has been established in a heritage warehouse precinct in north Alexandria, between McEvoy Street to the north and Alexandra Canal to the south.

The area’s industrial character, proximity to existing and future public transport services and distance from residential areas make it ideal for live performance, creative and cultural uses.