Sydney’s nightlife may finally be set for a revival as venues with live music or entertainment will be allowed to trade later and avoid vexatious noise complaints.

In a move that will support local businesses, the New South Wales government is enacting a change to the law that will curb the influence of residents lodging singular noise complaints, a practice that has led to the shutdown of numerous live music venues across the years.

“This introduces much-needed balance,” says James Thorpe, CEO of the Odd Culture Group, who praised the decision that requires multiple voices of concern before action is taken against a venue.

“Some people don’t have a problem with noise; it’s just that they don’t want live music or a pub, or any sort of thing there except their house,” he explained, stressing the irrational nature of some grievances.

This legal shift not only seeks to safeguard establishments like Enmore’s heritage-rich Duke pub but also aims to rejuvenate the city’s cultural and night-time economy.

Hear more highlights from Afternoons with Deborah Knight below: