The success of the Minns Labor Government’s outdoor dining reforms continues to grow, with more than 580 businesses across the state making the most of the relaxed rules to host patrons outside their venues.
As part of its vibrancy reforms* that have been rolled out since 2023, the Minns Government streamlined processes for venues to apply for permanent outdoor dining which has led to a booming alfresco and outdoor event scene.
Some of the approvals have been for one-off events, such as festivals and markets, in addition to the 380 ongoing outdoor dining approvals across the state for footpaths, roads and other land adjoining venues to be turned into entertainment spaces.
The NSW Government has continued to save hospitality venues time and money by abolishing the $121 application fee to reapply for temporary approvals to use their outdoor space, as part of the third tranche of vibrancy reforms that came into effect in January 2026.
Hospitality businesses wishing to use footpaths and public spaces can now apply through their local council, which will notify Liquor & Gaming NSW as part of the streamlined approval process.
Previously, businesses had to apply for a development application through councils and then go through another 30-day consultation process with Liquor & Gaming NSW.
The government has also scrapped rules that prevented patrons from standing while drinking outside licensed premises, with more than 420 venues with temporary outdoor dining approvals on footpaths and roads benefitting from the change.
Venues wanting to take advantage of outdoor dining or make the provision permanent, go to: https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/liquor-and-gaming/liquor-licensing/apply-manage/change-liquor-licence-boundaries.
Advice is also available through the Hospitality Concierge service, which can help with streamlined application processes and assist businesses and local councils to navigate the liquor licensing, planning and regulatory changes introduced through the Vibrancy Reforms.
Access the Hospitality Concierge here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/dciths/liquor-gaming-nsw/contact-us/hospitality-concierge
Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said:
“Raise your glasses! To have 580 more businesses embracing outdoor dining is a great result for NSW and a clear sign that the former government had tangled these businesses up in too much costly red tape.
“This is a great example of the way we’re cutting red tape and reducing costs for business to bring the fun back to Sydney.
“In the most beautiful city on earth, with great weather all year round, it was almost criminal to let red tape stop us from embracing outdoor dining.
“When you combine the increased outdoor dining, the big boost in live music venues and the rising number of special entertainment precincts – you can see that we’re leaving the lockout era well and truly behind.”
Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:
“It’s wonderful to have all these great new alfresco dining and entertainment options at bars, clubs and restaurants for people to enjoy while they’re out and about across our great state.
“Venue owners are embracing these Vibrancy Reforms that are making it easier to make the most of their space, add value to their offer and increase revenue.
“It’s great to see the positive impacts for premises and patrons alike, while boosting employment opportunities and the NSW economy.”
Business Sydney CEO Paul Nicolaou said:
“The Minns Government deserves credit for these practical reforms that are helping hospitality businesses thrive.
“By cutting red tape and making it easier for venues to activate outdoor spaces, the government is supporting cafes, bars and restaurants to welcome more customers and create vibrant street life across our communities.
“These changes are a real boost for the hospitality and tourism sectors. Outdoor dining enhances the visitor experience, encourages people to stay longer and spend more, and helps create the lively atmosphere that makes our cities and neighbourhoods attractive destinations for both locals and visitors.”
The Point Group CEO Brett Robinson said:
“Since opening, The International and our nearby venue The Shell House have played a role in shaping the CBD’s dining culture and we are always looking to elevate the guest experience.
“The updates to both venues allow us to create more alfresco moments for people to enjoy.
“We are thrilled about these developments, which allow us to provide more outdoor dining at The International and standing options for patrons at the Shell House and see this as an opportunity to further energise the CBD, paving the way for a lively dining landscape of a global standard similar to big international cities like London.”
