Pubs, clubs to stay open longer during major events to boost NSW Covid recovery

Some venues will be able to stay open for longer during certain times as the NSW government forges ahead with its Covid recovery.

Pubs and registered clubs across the state can now stay open for longer during sporting and cultural events, as the government forges ahead with its Covid recovery.

Extensions will apply to venues in the vicinity of major events, including Vivid Sydney, the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the Parkes Elvis Festival and the NRL grand final.

Hospitality Minister Kevin Anderson said the extension would push the trading hours from a 10pm closing time to midnight on Sundays – giving businesses “more trading opportunities” on a day when businesses close earlier.

Chris Lucas and Angelena Locke enjoying a drink at the Fortune of War in The Rocks. The NSW government will allow pubs extended trading hours during major events. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Where a major event falls on a weekday, nearby venues that do not already have long trading hours under their licences will also get extensions.

“We understand that it has been tough for hospitality venues recently, which is why we are extending trading hours for certain events,’’ Mr Anderson said.

“This will create jobs and put valuable dollars back into the tills of small businesses.

“NSW hospitality venues are waiting with open arms to welcome patrons through their doors, so now is the time to get out and enjoy yourself in a Covid-safe way.

“We need to recognise and support events that cater to a range of interests and cultures and that are both locally and globally significant.”

Vivid Sydney in 2019. Picture: Daniel Tran, Instagram

On three Sundays during Vivid Sydney’s run between May and June, pubs and clubs in the CBD, The Rocks, Barangaroo and Potts Point will be able to trade until midnight.

The trading extensions will not affect takeaway alcohol trading times.

The Rocks venue Fortune of War Hotel owner Steve Speed said the ­extended hours would give businesses more flexibility.

“The last weekend of Vivid is very big,’’ he said.

“Having the extended hours, especially on a Sunday will be great. We’ve copped it for two years, so it’s just going to give us the opportunity to start the recovery after Covid.

“The trends have changed over the years. People seem to be going out later these days.

“It’s really surprising the number of families you see that are still walking around with prams and their kids out at 11 or 12 o’clock at night, ­eating ice creams and enjoying themselves.

“It’s really good to see.”

Musician Angelena Locke said the extended trading hours would complement the ­ alfresco dining scene.

“It means musicians can have more than one timeslot and more than one gig and jump between venues.”