Sydney's Inner West Council has today announced a new policy that could help prevent the closure of further live music venues.
Dubbed the 'Good Neighbour' policy, council officers will now need to run a meeting with both the complainants and venue management rather than just launching compliance or legal action.
“The fun police war against Sydney’s pubs must come to an end. Our Good Neighbour policy can help provide a barrier of protection for our licensed premises against vexatious complaints," says Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne of the policy.
“This new rule sends a clear message to the community that, in the Inner West, if you live next door to a longstanding venue you should be prepared to be a good neighbour.
“I call on the Premier to take up this common sense idea and mandate it for all Councils.
“Longstanding pubs, clubs and other licenced venues are essential part of the character, history and heritage of Sydney,” continues Byrne. “Every NSW Council should be collaborating with the music industry and local residents to resolve complaints over a beer or a coffee rather than in court.
“Council has a statutory obligation and community responsibility to protect the amenity of residents. However we also have a responsibility to support the successful operation of local businesses, including pubs."
The news comes just a day after Berejiklian Government confirmed it will formally investigate the controversial NSW music festival licensing changes it introduced just 91 days earlier.
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