ClubsNSW Welcomes Government's Vibrancy Reforms
As major supporters of the arts, culture and creative industries, the announcement of the NSW Government's vibrancy reforms earlier today is welcome news for the state's clubs.
The creation of a balanced and streamlined noise regulation system, as well as the continuation of licensing fee reductions for live music venues are timely reforms, with clubs across the state preparing to host music festivals and other performances during the festive season, and with several clubs set to put on events as part of the NSW Government's upcoming Great Southern Nights program.
Similarly, making outdoor dining provisions, which were originally introduced as a COVID measure, permanent for clubs will be particularly valuable to the industry as the weather warms up.
Enabling contract caterers to sell alcohol in a club will also eliminate the hassle of patrons having to order a meal in one area of a club and drinks at a separate bar, making their experience more enjoyable and the contract more financially sustainable for both the caterer and the club.
ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant said the club industry is passionate about supporting local artists and hosting live music and other entertainment for the benefit of their communities, and that the announced reforms will remove some of the barriers clubs often face when doing so.
"From Dunedoo Sports Club's annual Tunes on the Turf music festival to the bowling green that Leichhardt Bowling Club has transformed into an outdoor dining and entertainment space, our industry is always looking for new ways to support local artists and businesses, and keep their communities vibrant and engaged," said Ms Riant.
"We thank the NSW Government for including ClubsNSW in the consultation process for these reforms and for reducing some of the red tape for clubs when it comes to trading and hosting live entertainment. The changes announced today will make a huge difference for clubs looking to diversify their offerings and we look forward to working with the government more closely for the betterment of our industry and the broader community."
According to the Economic and Social Impact of Clubs in NSW report produced by Urbis earlier this year, clubs host more than 10,000 free entertainment events every year, benefiting the NSW economy to the tune of $167 million.
NSW Clubs, 19th October 2023
