State government spends $16m to boost NSW nightlife

The state government is set to pump millions of dollars into the night-life economy. Here’s what they’re planning.

Western Sydney’s nightlife will get a major boost, with the state government to spend millions of dollars on after-dark entertainment as events new and old roar back to life after two pandemic-impacted years.

More than $16 million will be pumped into weekend night markets, pop-up performances and festivals — including a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party — in a desperately needed shot in the arm for the state’s nightlife post-Covid.

The cash splash comes from the second round of the NSW government’s CBDs Revitalisation Program, brought in to drive the revitalisation of parts of Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong.

Parramatta Nights has a diverse musical line-up scheduled.

“After years like no others, we don’t just want our return to CBDs to be about work, but about breathing new life and a fresh perspective around their use, through diverse experiences for families, groups and individuals to enjoy,” Tourism and Western Sydney Minister Stuart Ayres said.

The extra funding would help create a rollicking night scene with jobs to match, Mr Ayres said.

“Being in the city just for the weekday nine-to-five is long gone and, from recent trials of alfresco dining and live entertainment, we know that giving people a reason to visit our ­cities outside of work hours is a win-win for all involved,” he said.

“While entertaining audiences, each event will generate vital jobs for performers, hospitality and retail staff as well as transport workers, who have all been hit hard during the pandemic.”

Michael Rodrigues says Sydneysiders have a great range of night-time activities to choose from.

Michael Rodrigues, the 24-hour economy commissioner tasked with boosting the state’s nightlife, said activities would run from March to May.

“From large-scale events like the 23rd Biennale of Sydney’s Art After Dark series, to an Indian New Year Festival in Parramatta, a Laneways Alive series in Wollongong, and a three-day foodie experience in Chippendale, this support will draw a diverse range of audiences to our CBDs,” he said.

Parramatta’s big-ticket celebration kicked off on Thursday, with the Parramatta Nights festival, which runs until ­Wednesday.

The series boasts a whole range of free activities, including jazz in Parramatta Square, performances by leading First Nations artists, art installations, pop-up bars and an outdoor concert by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

Parramatta Lord Mayor Donna Davis heralded the ­return of nightlife to her city.

“Our city is in the box seat to be the best and brightest arts and entertainment centre right on the doorstep of one of Australia’s fastest growing regions,” she said.

“Our focus for Parramatta is to continue to attract rising talent through new and existing council initiatives, such as the National Theatre of ­Parramatta.

“Our dedication to the arts will see it continue to complement our already ­vibrant culture of food, entertainment, and progression.”