The 5 to 9 Economy: Australia's Growing Life After Dark

Business Sydney and JCDecaux Australia brought together business, government and community leaders at the iconic Museum of Contemporary Art Australia to launch The 5 to 9 Economy: Australia’s Growing Life After Dark, an important new report highlighting the enormous opportunities within Australia’s night-time economy.

The evening reinforced a simple but powerful message: after dark is where much of the future growth lies. By investing in policy, infrastructure, placemaking and activation, we can create safer, more vibrant and more productive precincts that support businesses, attract visitors, create jobs and strengthen communities.

A special thank you to the Hon. John Graham MLC, NSW Minister for Night-Time Economy, Music and Jobs, for sharing his vision for the future of Sydney and NSW after dark. It was also fantastic to hear from Michael Rodrigues, NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, whose leadership continues to drive positive change across the state’s night-time economy. We also heard from the Co-Chief Executive Officer of JCDecaux Australia, Max Eburne, who delivered a brief analysis of the report. 

After the speeches, there was a panel discussion from highly respected movers & shakers in Sydney who provided valuable insights on the night time economy. They were:

• Councillor John Faker GAICD, Mayor of Burwood Council
• Naysla Edwards, Vice President Brand, Marketing and Member Experience, American Express
• Tess Phillips, Executive General Manager, Corporate Affairs and Government Relations, JCDecaux
• Barrie Barton, Co-Founder and CEO, Right Angle
• Karen Jones, CEO, Destination NSW

The report that was launched co-curated by JCDecaux and Right Angle, demonstrates how thoughtful planning and design can unlock the full potential of our cities after dark, delivering economic, cultural and social benefits for all Australians.

The future of Sydney’s night-time economy is bright, and by working together we can ensure our city remains one of the world’s most dynamic, welcoming and exciting places to live, work and visit.