New report emphasises Australia's Vibrancy Reforms' role in reviving nighttime economy

Data-driven research, consultancy and advocacy agency VibeLab, in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania’s PennPraxis, has released its Creative Footprint Sydney Report.

Creative Footprint, renowned for its groundbreaking research in cities like Berlin, New York, Tokyo, Stockholm and Montréal, now adds the Australian city to its list. The initiative focuses on mapping creative spaces and communities, delving into the cultural strength and impact of a city's vibrant music and nightlife.

Assigned by the New South Wales (NSW) 24-Hour Economy Commissioner in 2023, this latest comprehensive report on Sydney is the result of extensive qualitative and quantitative research conducted from January to June 2023.

"Sydney's nightlife has been through a few crises recently, but a lot has happened since then. With the Creative Footprint study, NSW's leadership again demonstrates its commitment to supporting this diverse industry and its grassroots. We are confident that the analysis and recommendations we gathered by conversations with 70+ stakeholders will contribute to building a sustainable and resilient nightlife in Sydney," says Creative Footprint Founder and VibeLab Director, Lutz Leichsenring.

The methodology employed by Creative Footprint — coupled with spatial analysis in the City of Sydney and Inner West local government areas — reveals key insights and potential focus areas for the development of future music and nightlife spaces and districts, while also showcasing significant strides the city is making in transforming its nightlife.

In a nod to the heartbeat of Sydney's music scene, the report highlights independent venues and innovative collectives that play a crucial role in shaping the city's cultural identity.

The NSW Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy, John Graham, has praised the initiative by saying: “This report demonstrates why our new Vibrancy Reforms are essential. “We know that there is still work to be done, but we are pleased the groundwork we have laid will not only support the night-time economy but also give people even greater choice to enjoy a fun and safe night out.”

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With a keen eye on the future, Creative Footprint Sydney Report delivers over 25 recommendations across five pivotal themes:
1. Strengthen nightlife precincts throughout Sydney to promote equitable, transit-linked nightlife access.
2. Simplify pathways to new venue ownership and continued operation.
3. Restructure funding processes and improve grant literacy, particularly for emerging, small, and grassroots artists and collectives.
4. Support an equitable approach to policing and safety of nightlife venues through alignment with existing commitments to equity and inclusivity.
5. Enable local artists to develop international audiences: increase international discoverability of Sydney music artists and scenes on the global stage.

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VibeLab Asia Pacific Director, Jane Slingo, expressed that the Creative Footprint Sydney Report is a testament to the leadership of the NSW Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, the NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, and numerous key stakeholders.

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She adds how the initiative enables Sydney to measure and enhance its comprehension of the city's music spaces, communities, and the strategies required to overcome challenges in this exciting new chapter.

For more information and to read the full Creative Footprint Sydney Report, click here.

Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.