News-free zone at Circular Quay

There is a news drought at Circular Quay since the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority (SHFA) decided to increase rents on the news kiosks it controls and the operators have left.

One departing operator said the rent had risen from $300 to $350, which made the business unprofitable.

A spokesperson for SHFA said that when it had gained control over the kiosks from the City in 2007, rents had not increased for 15 around years.

“As the leases for the kiosks had expired, the Foreshore Authority went to market to find suitable proposals for the precinct.

“As part of the tender process, potential operators were asked to put forward rental rates they believed were fair and reasonable. The Authority is looking forward to leasing all three kiosks soon.”