Canberra's nightlife has benefited from new reforms to remove regulatory barriers and allow for more flexibility across trading hours, celebration of special events, reductions in liquor licence fees and now new fit-for-purpose Noise Standards for entertainment noise in the City Centre Entertainment Precinct.
In a further boost to musicians and the night-time economy, free loading zone permits will be available for musicians to access loading zones for up to 30 minutes to load and unload musical equipment, as part of a 12-month trial. Musicians will soon be able to apply for a permit via the Access Canberra website.
The passage of the Liquor (Night-Time Economy) Amendment Bill 2024 in April of this year has already provided a more flexible regulatory framework for businesses to stimulate growth and foster a thriving night-time economy that benefits all.
Further reform measures commenced in July 2024, allowing businesses more flexibility around their trading hours, a significant reduction in annual liquor licencing fees for supporting live music and the arts, and new provisions around celebrations of special events such as the Olympics and Floriade.
Minister for the Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Tara Cheyne, emphasised that these latest reforms ensure Canberrans, and visitors alike, can benefit from a city that is safe, accessible and rich with a diversity of experiences.
"The night-time economy reforms that we are delivering will make a tangible difference to businesses in the ACT, many of which are small and medium enterprises, and will have a positive impact on the community, particularly those Canberrans who want lively and diverse night-time experiences that can be enjoyed in a safe and welcoming environment," Minister Cheyne said.
Following the introduction of a new City Centre Entertainment Precinct (CCEP) through the Territory Plan, the ACT Government has introduced new fit-for-purpose Noise Standards to protect and support the Territory's entertainment and cultural scene. These aim to:
- Support local businesses: Support and grow live music venues, bars, and restaurants and other non-licensed entertainment venues in the CCEP
- Boost artistic growth: Support the ACT's live music ecosystem including local artists and industry workers
- Elevate visitor experience: Provide a wider range of entertainment offerings, attract more visitors and boost the city's cultural vibrancy
- Consider community wellbeing: Ensure a balanced approach that respects the health and well-being of the community while future proofing business development
"This substantial reform package, which has been implemented over the course of 2024, supports existing businesses as the city grows, assists businesses to diversify their business models, and encourages new businesses to establish. It also provides certainty for musicians, artists, and performers to showcase their talents and build their reputation and audience," said Minister Cheyne.
"The new Noise Standards for the City Centre Entertainment Precinct will give aspiring and existing venues and artists the confidence to operate and perform. By fostering a dynamic and inclusive nightlife, the ACT Government aims to drive economic growth and make Canberra an even more lively destination for work, life, and leisure."
The ACT Government is retaining more stringent noise settings for other noise such as construction noise, plant and equipment, machinery, and residential noise in the CCEP.
