Sydney Councils Push For 24-Hour Trading

Sydney councils are taking steps toward creating a round-the-clock economy, with new plans aimed at revitalising the city’s nightlife and boosting business activity.

The City of Sydney has approved a proposal that would allow businesses across key parts of the CBD to apply for 24-hour trading. Areas covered include major precincts such as Circular Quay, The Rocks, Barangaroo and Broadway. However, the plan still needs approval from the NSW state government before it can be implemented.

The initiative is designed to bring life back to the city after years of reduced nighttime activity caused by lockout laws and COVID-19 restrictions. If successful, extended trading hours could generate an estimated $6 billion for Sydney’s night-time economy.

Under the proposal, a wide range of businesses, including pubs, clubs, restaurants, cafés, retail stores and even personal services like hairdressers, would be eligible to operate around the clock.

Meanwhile, Parramatta is pursuing a similar strategy to strengthen its position as a key nightlife destination in Western Sydney. The City of Parramatta plans to introduce a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) in its CBD. This would allow longer trading hours, encourage live performances, and offer incentives such as reduced liquor licensing fees for participating venues.

The proposed precinct would cover a central area including Parramatta Station, Westfield Parramatta and the popular Eat Street dining strip. A working group will be established to guide the rollout and prepare a formal planning proposal later this year.

City of Parramatta lord mayor Martin Zaiter said the initiative would help position Parramatta as Western Sydney’s leading destination after dark.

“Parramatta is already a thriving cultural and dining destination, and a Special Entertainment Precinct will help unlock its full potential as a vibrant night-time city,” Mr Zaiter said.

“It is also a key step in our vision to transform our City into a 24-hour economy, supporting jobs, culture and a more vibrant city centre that people can enjoy day and night.”

These efforts are part of a broader push across New South Wales to support nighttime economies. Several other councils have already received government funding to trial similar entertainment precincts and extend late-night trading.