‘Kick in the guts’: Cost of living pressures, alcohol tax leave Port Adelaide bar Confession in jeopardy

One of Adelaide’s only fully accessible bars “faces extinction” as the hospitality industry continues to reel from cost of living struggles.

Accessible Port Adelaide bar Confession is under threat of closure due to ongoing cost of living pressures. Pictures: Samuel Graves

A beloved Port Adelaide nightclub that’s accessible for people with disabilities is in danger of closing in yet another blow to the city’s party scene.

Confession, which boasts accessible facilities, no stairs and braille menus, has been hit hard by cost of living pressures and surging operator costs, with owner Shane Hryhorec warning that this year may be the venue’s third and final Fringe.

Since the start of 2024, Confession has dealt with a loss of business due to a decline in traffic and spending, he said.

“People simply don’t have the money to go out for dinner or have a social night with friends,” he said.

Venue Manager Juan Londono, dog Whitney and owner Shane Hryhorec at the nightclub’s opening last year. Picture: Keryn Stevens

“Some young parents who usually come regularly to places like Confession can’t even afford to pay for a babysitter.

“Thirty per cent of our sales would typically be top shelf items, but now we’re seeing only basic drinks and house wines and beers being sold.”

For musicians such as Patrick from Wiggle of Judas who uses a wheelchair, venues such as Confession are vital.

“Until I performed at Confession, it had been years since I last played at a venue. The reason was simple: none of the other venues in Adelaide offered an accessible stage,” he said.

Confession is an inclusive and accessible for all to enjoy in Port Adelaide. Pictures: Samuel Graves

The venue boast boasts accessible facilities including no stairs and braille menus. Pictures: Samuel Graves

Mr Hryhorec, who is also chair of the Port Adelaide Traders Association, also expressed his concern for the state’s hospitality industry, calling on government to support local businesses before its too late.

“Speaking to businesses in the area, everyone has seen a dramatic decrease in traffic and spending, indicating a real downturn.

“Rents and costs are going up and traffic and spend is going down. If we don’t experience

financial relief soon, numerous Adelaide venues as we know them could face extinction.”

He also criticised the introduction of a federal alcohol tax which he described as a “kick in the guts” for an industry already in crisis.

“The introduction of an alcohol tax by the government will only make nights out more expensive for our customers,” he said.

“Venue owners are down and hurting, and this tax is just a kick in the guts while we are very much already in pain.”

Meanwhile, the business has teamed up with Carmine & Co to “offer their delicious pizzas to our patrons, keeping business in the local area”.

For more information, visit: https://confessionportadelaide.com/