The ACT Government is introducing a range of reforms to enhance Canberra’s night-time economy and foster a more vibrant hospitality sector.

Licensed cafes and restaurants that seat 80 people or less will have reduced licensing fees. These businesses will also be able to trade for an extra two hours every night, at no extra cost.

The changes aim to reduce costs for businesses and encourage extended trading hours.

From 1 January 2024, changes will include:

• automatically allowing smaller licensed restaurants and cafes to trade until 2am
• reducing liquor licensing fees for smaller restaurants, cafes, bars and general licences
• removing the need for general licensed businesses to have separate areas for the sale of liquor for on-premises and off-premises consumption.

Further reforms to be delivered by July 2024, subject to the passage of legislation, will incentivise venues to showcase artists, musicians and other cultural activities. The proposed changes will also allow all licensed businesses to extend trading hours up to 10 times a year at no cost.

Herbert's, a small eatery serving local beers and wines in Evatt are excited by the changes. They say they have come just in time for summer.

“This is an absolute game changer for small local venues like ours,” co-owners Kirstin and Dino Martiniello said.

“At Herbert's we proudly host local artists and musicians. We are so pleased that venues like ours are recognised and encouraged to continue this through meaningful and tangible support like fee reductions.” .

The ACT Government is committed to engaging with businesses and the community on noise settings for the City Centre Entertainment Precinct.  It plans to review how noise complaints are managed. Consultation on this will start soon.

Access Canberra's Event Coordination and Business Assist Team is available to help businesses understand opportunities and flexibility under ACT legislation and give tailored support for individual business needs.

For more information visit the Transforming Canberra's night-time economy website.