A series of sweeping reforms announced by the ACT Government last week are set to see Canberra’s night life scene continue to thrive to the beat of its live music heart.
In an attempt to support the capital’s struggling live music industry, the ACT Government has increased noise restrictions from 60 decibels to 75 decibels in central Civic.
The core zone in the central Civic area, ranging from the Sydney Building to Garema Place, will also see new reforms to remove regulatory barriers and allow for more flexibility across trading hours, celebration of special events, and reductions in liquor licence fees for some of Canberra’s most popular live music venues.
The ACT Government’s Night-time economy reform package states that the Core area, in red, has been chosen “based on a higher concentration of noise emitting entertainment venues away from currently constructed residential and commercial accommodation.”
The Frame area, in blue, “makes up the remainder of the precinct and contains a variety of venues which contribute to the entertainment scene, but which also acts as a transition zone between the Core and the areas adjacent to the CCEP.”
With the upcoming election fast approaching, the ACT Government’s arts and culture lifeline has been embraced with open arms, not just by businesses and venues, but by local Canberra bands and artists as well.
Members of the Canberra-born band Mr. Industry have expressed their excitement to see the Government recognise the importance of a thriving local music scene, where many big players have had to move to larger cities in Australia to perform in less restrictive conditions.
“I’m definitely excited to see the Government support the cultural economy in Canberra. Live music is a great way to build community and motivates people of all ages to go out,” Brendan O’Sullivan, Mr Industry keyboardist said.
I think a thriving art community is an important part of building and maintaining a positive identity for any city, and I think the Government recognises this.
“This decision proves a level of commitment from the Government towards the arts sector that makes me very optimistic for the future of music and art in the city.”
However, musicians are still calling for further improvements to the sector to ensure Canberra’s nightlife remains accessible to the growing city.
“Now we just need easier ways for people to actually get to the entertainment precinct, like better transport, and also more financial support for small venues,” Lachlan Walker, drummer for Mr Industry said.
What are the reforms?
Noise restriction increase
Restrictions have been raised from 60 decibels to 75 decibels in some areas of Canberra City
Reductions in liquor licence fees
Venues that showcase artists, musicians and other cultural activities will be eligible for significantly reduced liquor licensing fees – helping them to support more artists, creatives and performers.
A more flexible regulatory framework for businesses
The passage of the Liquor (Night-Time Economy) Amendment Bill 2024 in April of this year aims to provide a more flexible regulatory framework for businesses to stimulate growth and foster a thriving night-time economy that benefits all.
The newly named City Centre Entertainment Precinct is home to some of Canberra’s most popular live music venues, like Transit Bar, Squeaky Clean, One22, and Fun Time Pony.
The noise restriction reforms follow the announcement of the passing of The Liquor (Night-Time Economy) Amendment Bill 2024 in April this year, demonstrating the ACT Government’s commitment to continuously improve Canberra’s nightlife and secure the title of Australia’s arts capital.
The ACT Minister for the Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Tara Cheyne released a statement on Friday outlining the key targets of the new reforms.
“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.
The new restrictions will now be in place in Canberra’s core entertainment centre from Sunday and Wednesday 10am-11pm, and Thursday to Saturday 10am-1am.