Camden Village

Camden's evenings are evolving, and now is the time for local businesses, venue operators and the community to help shape what comes next.

Two important surveys are currently underway, both focused on strengthening the night-time economy and creating a vibrant, safe and welcoming Camden after dark. Together, they present a unique opportunity to influence how our town grows, supports local business and delivers more experiences for residents and visitors alike.

NSW Government Vibrancy Reforms

The NSW Government is seeking feedback on its Vibrancy Reforms, a series of changes introduced over recent years to modernise liquor licensing and support a thriving night-time economy.

The reforms aim to encourage more live music, simplify entertainment sound regulations, create greater flexibility for outdoor dining and events, streamline licensing processes and reduce unnecessary red tape. They are designed to help licensed venues, artists and event organisers flourish while maintaining safe and enjoyable communities.

Businesses operating under a liquor licence are encouraged to share their experiences and provide feedback on how these changes have impacted their operations. The consultation will help shape future improvements to the reforms and ensure they continue to support vibrant local communities.

Camden After Dark

Closer to home, Camden Council has launched its Camden After Dark project to better understand how people live, work and connect between 6pm and 6am.

The project explores much more than hospitality. It includes dining, entertainment, live music, cultural activities, retail, healthcare, accommodation, transport, education, emergency services, manufacturing and other industries that keep Camden operating after dark.

Council is seeking input from businesses across the Local Government Area—not just those currently open at night—to better understand current activity, opportunities and challenges. The findings will help shape Council's future Economic Development Strategy and create a shared vision for Camden's night-time economy.

The project will investigate:

Current night-time activity across Camden.
Opportunities to grow local business and employment.
Ways to improve safety and vibrancy.
Community and business needs.
Future strategic actions to support Camden after dark.

Why Your Voice Matters

Camden Village already boasts an impressive range of evening destinations, including pubs, clubs, bars, breweries, restaurants, cafés and entertainment venues. As our region continues to grow, these surveys provide an opportunity to ensure future planning reflects the needs of businesses, residents and visitors.

Whether it's attracting more live music, creating family-friendly evening experiences, supporting local hospitality, improving outdoor activations or encouraging greater visitation, community feedback will help guide the next chapter of Camden's night-time economy.

Both consultations are open until Tuesday 7 July, so now is the time to have your say and help shape a more vibrant future for Camden after dark.