After-dark push: 24-hour economy plan targets three Northern Rivers towns

THREE Northern Rivers towns have been selected as part of the state government’s $2 million push to reinvigorate nightlife and entertainment across regional communities.

Byron Bay, Lennox Head and Murwillumbah are among 10 regional centres chosen for the Regional Night-Time Economy Program pilot.

It will support business collectives across the state looking to develop their local 24-hour economy by helping them build vibrant local economies day and night.

A focus is on after-dark entertainment with grants between $100,000 and $200,000 available.

Developed in response to feedback from regional businesses, councils and industry groups, the pilot will deliver tailored capacity-building bootcamps and ongoing support to help local business collectives collaborate and grow.

Minister for small business and minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the funding would help communities harness opportunities unique to their areas.

“We know that people are seeking out nightlife experiences closer to home, and this program will enable regional business groups to collaborate and highlight what their region has to offer, not just during major or community events but all year round, day or night,” she said.

“These capacity-building grants are designed to support organised teams of local businesses to collaborate and further develop vibrant economies and leverage opportunities in their communities.”

A state government roadshow held in Ballina late last year highlighted the NSW Vibrancy Reforms, which are designed to support the state’s evolving 24-hour economy.

Under the reforms, venues across the region can access an 80 per cent reduction in annual liquor licence fees when hosting live music.

They are also able to extend trading hours when providing live entertainment, a move aimed at benefiting both venues and local musicians.

Other measures include simplified noise complaint procedures and streamlined takeaway alcohol protocols.

Minister for the night-time economy John Graham said the pilot program recognises the importance of tailoring support to local communities.

“It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Across the state, groups provided feedback that an integrated capacity-building and funding approach designed to suit the unique local contexts and settings across the state would be ideal,” he said.

“The program will support these regions to harness local opportunities that make them unique and work toward developing vibrant local economies from day to night in regional town centres.”