8 February 2021

Councils welcome the new 24-hr Economy Commissioner

Sydney’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic had taken another step forward with the appointment of the city’s first 24-hour Economy Commissioner, Local Government NSW (LGNSW) said today.

LGNSW President Linda Scott congratulated Time Out Managing Director Michael Rodriguez on his appointment to the role and welcomed his commitment to implementing the NSW Government’s Sydney 24-Hour Economy Strategy.

“This strategy formally recognises the important role of councils in supporting and enabling vibrant, safe and sustainable night-time economies and we look forward to working with Michael to bring the Strategy to life,” Cr Scott said.

“The arts, music, hospitality and entertainment have been among the hardest hit by the COVID pandemic, so it is particularly fitting that we bolster the broader economic recovery by helping them get back on their feet.

“There can be no doubt the cultural creativity of a city is an important economic driver and job creator – but the individuals and organisations who make up this sector also bring a great deal of joy to our existence.”

Cr Scott called for the Metropolitan Strategy to be complemented by a Regional Strategy, to ensure the benefits were experienced state-wide.

And she also called on the Government to establish a new Parliamentary Secretary responsible for the night-time economic portfolio.

“LGNSW and our councils stand ready to support a new Parliamentary Secretary through the establishment of an advisory group involving councils and representatives of the arts, hospitality and entertainment sectors,” Cr Scott said.

“It would be a natural continuation of the work we started in 2016, when LGNSW and a range of councils established a Night Time Economy Councils’ Committee.

“The night-time economy consists of a wide range of activity in town and city centres between 5pm and 6am, including pubs, clubs, cafes, restaurants, retail, cinemas, theatres or concerts, art and other community events.

“Historically, it has accounted for nearly 10% of all Australian employment, with flow-on benefits for the tourism industry as visitors flock to vibrant cities and regional hubs.

“Strong night time economies balance the competing demands of economic development, public safety and quality of life through an effective partnership between local businesses, councils, residents and the emergency services sector.

“That is why we are so looking forward to working with Commissioner Rodrigues when he takes up his position next month.”

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