Boosting Illawarra’s nightlife a focus for 24-Hour Economy Commissioner

Driving the growth of the Illawarra-Shoalhaven region’s restaurant, bar and hospitality sector was the focus of a special event held in Wollongong’s Illawarra Hotel last night.

Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy John Graham, with Paul Scully Member for Wollongong and Ryan Park, Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast met with local business operators from across the hospitality and entertainment sector to find out how the NSW Government can support the region’s unique night-time offerings.

Joined by the NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, Michael Rodrigues the evening brought together 61 people to hear their insights into getting people out after dark and building the night- time economy.

Local musician Elana Stone was MC and moderated the panel consisting of Minister Graham, Minister Scully, Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery, local music promoter Ben Tillman, hospitality industry lead Nikki Aitchison and Mr Rodrigues.

Since 2021, the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner has worked alongside stakeholders across Sydney to support the recovery and growth of the night-time economy sector, with the Office’s engagement now set to expand with a regional focus.

Minister for Music and the Night-Time economy John Graham said:

“This event is part of the NSW Government’s commitment to expand the remit of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner across the Six Cities. Our state’s night-time economy has rebounded well from an era of lockouts and lockdowns, but more work is required to get people out after dark and expanding the 24-Hour Office is crucial to this process.

“It was great to hear directly from the community and those people most involved in the sector about what makes their night-time economy different, and what they want for the future.

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said:

“The Illawarra has long been known for its natural beauty and holiday attractions, but I know the community is excited to help build our reputation for hospitality and nightlife.

“We look forward to working alongside the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner to cement Wollongong’s reputation as a great entertainment destination.”

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“Having our nightlife community all in one room last night allowed the region’s representatives to share their thoughts on Wollongong’s 24-hour economy and how to get the most out of it.”

“Wollongong has already introduced a range of initiatives to support the night-time economy and it was exciting to share ideas and hear about how we can make our city’s great offerings even better.”

24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues said:

“Sydney’s night-time economy had rebounded impressively, and it was time to share that success with other cities across the state.”

“There is no doubt that a thriving nightlife can have great benefits to the local economy. It doesn’t mean the Illawarra-Shoalhaven will have to become a 24-hour environment, but it’s worth looking at how we can maximise its social, cultural, and economic assets at night.”

Venue owner and Illawarra local Nikki Aitchison said:

“Wollongong is great place to visit, day or night. It was exciting to share our ideas and hear from other residents about how we can make our city’s brilliant offerings even better. “We look forward to working alongside the NSW Government to achieve our night-time economy goals and cement Wollongong as great nightlife destination.”