The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner's $360,000 Purple Flag Readiness Grant Program will support the expansion of the current network of Purple Flag precincts to more local government areas (LGAs) and support the long-term growth of these precincts.
The program has been established to support the adoption of the Purple Flag framework across Special Entertainment Precincts (SEP) in NSW. Hornsby Shire Council, Tamworth Regional Council and Kiama Municipal Council will seek to develop their application for potential Purple Flag accreditation within their proposed SEP trial areas and have received grants to support the coordination of local working groups, conduct workshops with their communities and raise awareness of the Purple Flag framework in these areas.
Burwood Council and Fairfield City Council will use grant funding to promote their existing Purple Flag status and enhance initiatives that support perceptions of safety and the visitor experience within their precincts.
Precincts or Councils across NSW interested in Purple Flag can now register their interest online to apply for accreditation and, if successful, join the new cohort of precincts flying the Purple Flag.
Sydney’s Rainbow Precinct (Oxford Street and Taylor Square) and Uptown CBD (between Bridge Street and Circular Quay) will also join Burwood, Canley Heights, Canley Vale and Chinatown in Haymarket as newly accredited Purple Flag precincts.
The Rainbow Precinct was recognised for its visible, approachable, and well-trained security presence, including precinct-branded rainbow high-visibility vests, the precinct’s clear commitment to diversity and inclusion, and Oxford Street’s accessibility and transport connectivity.
UpTown Sydney’s new Purple Flag precinct between Bridge Street and Circular Quay was recognised for its transport accessibility, diverse quality offering, with proactive waste management measures such as additional bins during peak nightlife periods.
Uptown Sydney’s diverse and inclusive food and dining offerings and its proximity to cultural institutions, iconic landmarks and heritage sites also contributed to the precinct’s successful accreditation.
There are now 10 Purple Flag accredited precincts across Sydney with the number expected to grow in coming months. Purple Flag is an internationally recognised initiative that has been rolled out in more than 100 locations in the UK, Ireland, Sweden, New Zealand, Australia and Malta recognising excellence in night-time precinct management.
The program recognises night-time districts that meet set standards of excellence in vibrancy, diversity, mobility and wellbeing at night, giving visitors and residents greater confidence to enjoy a night out.
The Purple Flag EOI for accreditation will close on 18 August 2026. For more information or to explore accreditation click here.
24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues said: “Purple Flag is a signal to visitors and locals that these precincts are a great place for a night out. It shows that the precinct is not only home to plenty of going out options, but it is also accessible, welcoming and has transport options so people can get home safely.
“Purple Flag working groups bring local authorities – including Police, councils and businesses – together to collaborate, coordinate and highlight what makes their precinct a great place to enjoy a night out.
“Our grant program will also support future Purple Flag expansion to create a network of vibrant, well-connected precincts across the state with community wellbeing and social cohesion front of mind.”
Fairfield City Council Economic Development manager Holden Frisoli said: “Purple Flag funding will allow Council to spotlight what locals and visitors already know: that Canley Heights and Canley Vale are safe, vibrant, and multicultural destinations, known for their exceptional food, thriving businesses and diverse community.
“The accreditation builds on the Special Entertainment Precinct trial, which is transforming ‘The Canleys’ into a lively night-time entertainment hub.
“It’s an important achievement that highlights the strength of collaboration between local businesses, Council, and the community in shaping a precinct that’s welcoming day and night.”
Rainbow Precinct precinct manager Shane Warren said: “Rainbow Precinct welcomes Purple Flag accreditation as important recognition of Oxford Street’s role as an inclusive and vibrant night-time destination.
“Through our Great Night Out strategy, we are bringing together practical safety and wellbeing initiatives, including Pride Hi-Vis for security guards, Ask for Angela, Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer (GLLO) engagement with the NSW Police Force and the Oxford Street Pride Charter, so people can enjoy the precinct with confidence.
“For us, safety is not separate from culture. It is the foundation that allows people, community and local business to thrive together.”
UpTown Sydney President and Purple Flag Working Group Lead Justin Newton said: “Achieving Purple Flag accreditation reflects the strong partnerships UpTown Sydney has built with local government and key stakeholders across the district, all working towards a safer, more vibrant precinct.
“It reinforces our position as a diverse, inclusive and easily accessible destination.
“With the continued support through the Uptown Program, we look forward to building on these relationships to activate the precinct and continue elevating UpTown Sydney as a premium destination to eat, drink, stay and explore.”
