The NSW Government has launched a “one-stop-shop” concierge service, with a dedicated team to help start or grow hospitality businesses across the state.
Nationals Minister for Hospitality and Racing Kevin Anderson said Hospitality Concierge will streamline application processes, and assist businesses and local councils to navigate the liquor licensing, planning and regulatory changes introduced through the 24-Hour Economy reforms.
“We recognise that it can be challenging for businesses to access initiatives and support which involve contact with multiple agencies. With Hospitality Concierge the process is streamlined, through an online enquiry, followed by a phone call at a time that suits you,” Mr Anderson said.
The Hospitality Concierge will;
* Help councils establish special entertainment precincts to encourage and support more live music and entertainment.
* Help local councils, businesses and the community understand the options and initiatives available to support the 24-Hour Economy.
* Ensure venues get necessary approvals they need quickly to start up new offerings or expand their existing offerings to patrons.
* Help licensees navigate the various regulatory approval pathways in relation to new applications and expanded or varied business offerings.
* Facilitate referrals to the appropriate agency or local councils, to ensure coordinated and timely approvals.
“The NSW Liberal and National Government has already introduced a number of reforms to cut red tape to make it easier for licensees to diversify their business offerings and provide greater hospitality and entertainment experiences for the community,” Mr Anderson said.
Some of these initiatives are;
* The incredibly successful Alfresco Restart package, that enables hospitality businesses to use footpaths, roads, parks, car parks and other open spaces for outdoor dining.
* More than 600 businesses have so far benefitted from the scheme.
* An 80% reduction on annual liquor licence fees and extended trading hours for venues which provide dedicated live music, live performances or other arts and cultural events.
* Almost 200 venues across NSW are benefitting from these incentives.
* Removing outdated live entertainment conditions such as restrictions on genres of music, enabling venues to have more choice in the entertainment they can offer the community.
For more information about Hospitality Concierge, visit www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/hospitalityconcierge
