Sydney has taken a major step forward towards becoming a city that never sleeps with approval for around the clock trading in the CBD moving to the next phase and a new entertainment precinct to be trialled.
The Harbour City is celebrated for its beautiful beaches, top-tier coffee, stunning coastal walks and world-renowned restaurants but when it comes to its nightlife – not so much.
But the city has taken another big stride to becoming a destination that delivers around the clock, with the City of Sydney Council approving plans to allow 24-hour trading across the CBD. And this isn’t limited to places like Martin Place and Town Hall. The changes will extend from Circular Quay and The Rocks through to Barangaroo and Broadway.
The new CBD-wide planning proposal will let licensed venues apply to stay open until dawn, while unlicensed businesses (like cafés, hairdressers, and other retailers) can seek approval for 24-hour trading. These extended hours are expected to not only give visitors and locals alike more lifestyle options, but also give Sydney’s night-time economy a $6 billion boost.
Councillors voted to approve the planning proposal on March 23 and it will now go on public exhibition with the NSW Department of Planning and to the NSW State Government for final approval.
Will Bondi Junction be Sydney’s new nightlife hotspot?
It’s not just the CBD that is set to be transformed. Transport hub Bondi Junction has been named as the city’s next trial Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP).
SEPs are a key pillar of the government’s 24-hour economy plans, as they “support live entertainment via extended trading hours for live music venues and noise controls that provide operational certainty for venues, residents and businesses.”
There are currently eight trial SEPs, 14 SEP trials in preparation and one permanent SEP: Enmore Road.
Enmore Road became the first permanent SEP in 2023, after a successful trial that saw a rise in night-time foot traffic, visitation and business revenue.
Now a pillar of Sydney’s cultural, live music and creative scene, the iconic strip (which is home to Sydney’s oldest theatre, The Enmore Theatre) was named one of the world’s top 20 coolest neighbourhoods by Time Out Magazine. Head there on a night out, and you won’t be disappointed by its bustling bars, groovy late-night venues and thriving dining scene.
Bondi Junction is aiming to replicate that success, leveraging its excellent transport links and prime location near the Eastern Suburbs’ beaches. With many visitors already drawn to the area for its convenience and appeal, a vibrant nightlife scene in “The Jungo”, as it’s affectionately known, would be a welcome addition.
Business Sydney executive director Paul Nicolaou shared his excitement about Bondi Junction’s new status as a trial SEP location, stating that it “has all the ingredients to become Sydney’s next late-night hotspot”.
He continued, “Strong transport links, a growing dining scene, and proximity to one of the world’s most iconic beaches … it could be a game changer.”
Which other suburbs are trialling an SEP?
Sydney’s nightlife revitalisation plans span the city. Iconic Northern Beaches suburb Manly will launch an 18-month trial of a SEP, cementing its role as the area’s premier nightlife destination.
With popular venues like Hotel Steyne and FelonsBrewing Co., extended trading hours and more live music performances are expected to give the area’s night-time economy a significant boost. Challenges remain, however, as residents have already raised concerns over relaxed noise restrictions. Despite this, the Northern Beaches Council is keen to move ahead with the trial and enhance the suburb’s after-dark appeal.
Out west, Parramatta will trial a SEP in its own CBD, with the City of Parramatta Lord Mayor, Cr Martin Zaiter, stating, “It is also a key step in our vision to transform our City into a 24-hour economy, supporting jobs, culture and a more vibrant city centre that people can enjoy day and night.
“We have already been recognised as one of the world’s best places to eat, and this will give eateries an opportunity to stay open longer so more visitors can enjoy what we have to offer.”
Inner West trials are set for areas including Balmain, Rozelle, Dulwich Hill, Leichhardt, Marrickville North, and Marrickville Town Centre. Meanwhile, Fairfield City Council is piloting SEPs in Canley Vale and Canley Heights, with additional trials planned for Bankstown and Campsie. Discussions are also underway to introduce SEPs in Cronulla, Liverpool, Kogarah, Hurstville, and Burwood.
With numerous suburbs aiming to extend trading hours and energise local nightlife, these moves are a welcome step toward undoing the damage that lockout laws and COVID inflicted on Sydney’s night-time economy.
