Safe zones in Sydney to keep party and pub goers safe

Four new safe zones have been implemented in Sydney to help patro9ns enjoying a night out feel like they are out of harm’s way.

The NSW government is trialling “Purple Flag accreditation”, a new scheme to improve “public confidence in going-out areas”.

The initiative was announced by inaugural 24-hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues.

“We have so many great night-time districts in Sydney and Purple Flag will promote many of the fantastic things they offer,” Rodriguez said.

“The pilot program … will further enhance the revitalisation of Sydney’s night-life.”

Sydney’s YCK precinct, Parramatta’s Church St, Lakemba’s Haldon St and Marrickville’s Illawarra Rd, are all tipped for accreditation.

The four areas will be assessed for safety and compliance ahead of a 2023 rollout.

“The program will assess destinations against a set of criteria to achieve a Purple Flag status, including public transport access, adequate street lighting and entertainment,” Investment NSW stated.

The initiative isn’t new. It was first launched in the UK in 2012 and recognised town and city centres with standards and policies to manage the night-time economy.

Sydney will be the first in Australia to trial the international accreditation and will join the UK, Sweden and New Zealand in doing so.

“This program will help further position Sydney as a global night-life destination, joining cities like London and Stockholm, to create safe and fun after-dark destinations,” NSW Enterprise, Investment and Trade Minister Alister Henskens said.

“The accreditation will allow people to easily identify precincts that have met high standards of safety, vibrancy, and diversity of entertainment and activities.”

Jonathan Jackson - 12-12-22