Planning for Special Entertainment Precincts in Kogarah and Hurstville

Council is exploring a new idea to make Hurstville and Kogarah even better places to visit, eat, and enjoy live music and events.

We're looking at the possibility of creating Special Entertainment Precincts in these locations as part of the NSW Government's Vibrancy Reforms, an initiative to support thriving night-time economies across the state.

We would like to share our early ideas and locations for creating Special Entertainment Precincts in Hurstville and Kogarah.

This page provides information on what a Special Entertainment Precinct is, why we are considering Hurstville and Kogarah, and what are short- and long-term plans for these precincts.

We would also like to understand our community's support and priorities by completing a short survey. Feedback will form part of the evidence we need to apply for NSW Government funding to move forward with planning these special precincts.

✨ What is a Special Entertainment Precinct?

A Special Entertainment Precinct (or SEP for short) is an area where council sets local rules to help create fun, safe spaces for nightlife. This initiative is part of the NSW Government's commitment to creating vibrant, safe communities that thrive day and night. Here's what happens in an SEP:

• Local businesses get support. Music venues, cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues have clearer rules about when they can open and how loud they can be.
• Council sets the rules. Instead of lots of conflicting regulations, there's one clear set of local rules that everyone understands.
• Safety and fairness matter. The rules protect both businesses and residents—ensuring great entertainment without disrupting nearby homes.
• Community comes first. The entire approach is based on what the community wants, not what works for just one group.

The goal is to create places where people want to spend time in the evening—whether that's grabbing dinner, seeing a band or performance, or just socialising with friends.

📌 Why are we looking at Hurstville and Kogarah?

Hurstville and Kogarah are two of our busiest strategic centres. They already have businesses, restaurants, shops, and community spaces. They're also places where people gather and spend time. Through the support of an SEP, they could become exciting evening destinations too. Currently, Hurstville and Kogarah:

• already have businesses eligible to participate
• have the mix of housing, entertainment, and public spaces needed
• have potential to bring even more life and economic activity to these centres
• reflect the diversity and character of our community

Proposed area for the Hurstville Special Entertainment Precinct

Proposed area for the Kogarah Special Entertainment Precinct

🎯 What is happening now?

This is the first step and early consultation to check with our community on the principle of creating an SEP in Hurstville and Kogarah. This is early consultation; no events or activations are about to start.

💬 What we're asking you

Tell us what you think about creating special entertainment precincts in Hurstville and Kogarah. This is early-stage consultation where we can gather community sentiment on these locations and capture feedback on priorities, concerns and ideas. This includes understanding:

👍👎Your Support or Opposition

• What do you think about exploring a Special Entertainment Precinct in Hurstville or Kogarah?
• Do you think these are good locations for one? Why or why not?

🕤 When and Why You Visit

• Do you currently visit Hurstville or Kogarah in the evening or night?
• What would make you want to visit more?
• What types of entertainment or events would you like to see?

🗣️ Ideas for Everyone

• What would make this feel safe and inclusive for everyone?

How can I provide feedback?

If you would like to provide feedback or comments this consultation, we encourage you to complete our online feedback form or return a hard copy submission.

If you are returning a hard copy submission, please quote SF25/7952- Public Submission –Special Entertainment Precinct at the beginning of your submission and return:

• In person to Georges River Council Civic Centre or Libraries
• Via email: mail@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
• Via post: PO Box 205, Hurstville BC NSW 1481
• TTY number: 133 677

* Please note Hurstville Library will temporarily close from 1 December 2025 to allow for essential fire system improvements, including a new sprinkler system. During the closure a pop-up library will be available at the Georges River Civic Centre. For more information on the closure, please view our Temporary Closure of Hurstville Library Public Notice.