Developing a Night Time Economy Strategy


Local Jobs and Local Nights Out

Council is developing a strategy to encourage a diverse and vibrant night life scene in Wollondilly Shire – good for local businesses, jobs, and local community members who want a great night out closer to home.

Over summer we’ve drafted a Night Time Economy Discussion Paper based on early input from the local community, businesses, and expert advice. Now we‘re inviting your feedback - what’s on the right track, what’s off track, and anything we’ve missed.

What is the ‘Night Time Economy’?

The Night Time Economy (NTE) includes events, activities and venues such as restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs, theatres, markets, festivals and events, live music venues, retailers, gyms, and creative spaces. It's broadly defined as the range of economic activities that occur in the evening hours (between 6.00pm and 6.00am). The focus of Wollondilly’s NTE is the ‘early evening’ and ‘evening’ time periods, being from 6.00pm until midnight.

Why is it Important?

A thriving NTE contributes significant benefits to the local economy, and provides a range of cultural and social benefits. Strengthening Wollondilly’s NTE is also complementary to the development of the Wollondilly Cultural Precinct.

Starting the Conversation

We previously heard from you that Wollondilly’s NTE should have ambitions to be more vibrant, diverse, accessible and creative, and be targeted to specific locations that can support it. A Discussion Paper for developing the NTE in Wollondilly has been prepared, based on research and engagement with Wollondilly businesses, our community, and the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner. The purpose of the Discussion Paper is to start a conversation around the barriers and opportunities for growing Wollondilly’s NTE, and to serve as a guide in the preparation of a Night Time Economy Strategy.

Initially, the focus for NTE development is on Picton. As Wollondilly's population grows, so will the opportunities for developing a healthy Night Time Economy in other parts of the Shire.

Get Involved!

  • Join us at an event
    • Picton Hotel - Thursday 13 March 2025
      4.00pm to 7.00pm
    • Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre Foyer - Thursday 27 March 2025
      6.30pm to 7.30pm (before the Anh Do show)
  • Take the questionnaire below
  • Share your great ideas on our ‘Ideas Wall
  • Add a pin to the map – tell us where you’d like to see pop-up food stalls, markets, and other changes to help develop the night time economy.

We are accepting feedback until 16 April 2025.



Local Jobs and Local Nights Out

Council is developing a strategy to encourage a diverse and vibrant night life scene in Wollondilly Shire – good for local businesses, jobs, and local community members who want a great night out closer to home.

Over summer we’ve drafted a Night Time Economy Discussion Paper based on early input from the local community, businesses, and expert advice. Now we‘re inviting your feedback - what’s on the right track, what’s off track, and anything we’ve missed.

What is the ‘Night Time Economy’?

The Night Time Economy (NTE) includes events, activities and venues such as restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs, theatres, markets, festivals and events, live music venues, retailers, gyms, and creative spaces. It's broadly defined as the range of economic activities that occur in the evening hours (between 6.00pm and 6.00am). The focus of Wollondilly’s NTE is the ‘early evening’ and ‘evening’ time periods, being from 6.00pm until midnight.

Why is it Important?

A thriving NTE contributes significant benefits to the local economy, and provides a range of cultural and social benefits. Strengthening Wollondilly’s NTE is also complementary to the development of the Wollondilly Cultural Precinct.

Starting the Conversation

We previously heard from you that Wollondilly’s NTE should have ambitions to be more vibrant, diverse, accessible and creative, and be targeted to specific locations that can support it. A Discussion Paper for developing the NTE in Wollondilly has been prepared, based on research and engagement with Wollondilly businesses, our community, and the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner. The purpose of the Discussion Paper is to start a conversation around the barriers and opportunities for growing Wollondilly’s NTE, and to serve as a guide in the preparation of a Night Time Economy Strategy.

Initially, the focus for NTE development is on Picton. As Wollondilly's population grows, so will the opportunities for developing a healthy Night Time Economy in other parts of the Shire.

Get Involved!

  • Join us at an event
    • Picton Hotel - Thursday 13 March 2025
      4.00pm to 7.00pm
    • Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre Foyer - Thursday 27 March 2025
      6.30pm to 7.30pm (before the Anh Do show)
  • Take the questionnaire below
  • Share your great ideas on our ‘Ideas Wall
  • Add a pin to the map – tell us where you’d like to see pop-up food stalls, markets, and other changes to help develop the night time economy.

We are accepting feedback until 16 April 2025.