City of Newcastle has released its Night-Time Economy 2026 Report, which shows the sector generated $2.3 billion in 2025 and accounted for 13,600 jobs across 1027 businesses.

Proposals are now being invited to support the development of the city's new five-year City Vibrancy Strategy, which will provide a roadmap to support business growth and sustainability, enhance the visitor economy, strengthen the city's night-time economy and unlock new opportunities for investment, business and job creation.

The strategy will seek to strengthen the night-time economy and investigate the feasibility of one or more Special Entertainment Precincts in the city to encourage a range of 24-hour economic activity.

Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said: "Newcastle has become a city that delivers the complete package, from its breathtaking beaches and thriving cultural scene to its outstanding hospitality, major events calendar and experiences that continue well into the evening.

“We're seeing increased investment attraction across a range of sectors, more visitors choosing to stay longer, travel for major events and spending more whilst enjoying everything Newcastle has to offer. That presents a significant opportunity for our local economy and businesses.

"This strategy is about making sure we harness that momentum. We want to grow visitation, encourage investment, create jobs and continue building a city that's vibrant every day of the week and at all hours of the day."

Councillor Paige Johnson said: “Special Entertainment Precincts are one tool that have the potential to unlock new economic opportunities and support a vibrant nightlife in Newcastle.

“Following the council resolution about exploring a Special Entertainment Precinct for Midtown Newcastle, the Strategy will be informed by community engagement and consultation on how SEPs could support live music, hospitality, arts and culture, while meeting the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.”

The City Vibrancy Strategy will review and consolidate City of Newcastle's Destination Management Plan, Economic Development Strategy, Night-Time Economy Strategy and Events Plan into a single, coordinated framework.

A key focus will be growing Newcastle’s diversified economy, its reputation as a premium leisure destination and extending appeal to international markets on the back of Newcastle Airport’s recent expansion and the introduction of new routes and connections.

It will review City of Newcastle’s commitment to attracting and facilitating major events, assess the use of council-owned venues and public spaces, identify opportunities for sustainable event growth and explore how this can increase overnight visitation.

City of Newcastle Strategy and Innovation Strategic Advisory Committee Chair Declan Clausen said: "The calibre of events Newcastle is attracting today would have been difficult to imagine a decade ago. From international concerts to world-class sporting events, we're proving that Newcastle can compete on the national and global stage.

“We have a significant pipeline of major events locked in, welcoming global music heavyweights including the Foo Fighters, Robbie Williams and Guns N' Roses, alongside sporting spectacles such as the Rugby League and Rugby World Cups.

“These events don’t just fill venues, they fill our hotels, restaurants, cafés and local businesses while showcasing everything Newcastle has to offer to new audiences.

"We’ve built incredible momentum over recent years and now is the time to think strategically about how we build on that success, working alongside industry and all levels of government to maximise every opportunity.”

Tenders for the City Vibrancy Strategy are open until 25 August. Learn more here.