Kiama Council will develop a Night-Time Economy Strategy and to establish a trial of a Special Entertainment Precinct.

New state MP for Kiama, Katelin McInerney, committed $200,000 to Kiama Council towards establishing a Special Entertainment Precinct in the town in August alongside Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham.

The funding will be discussed at Council’s monthly meeting on Tuesday night following a report by e Director Strategies and Communities Ed Paterson.

The SEP will designate an area where trading hours and sound conditions are tailored to support live music and entertainment.

It aims to reduce administrative burdens for venues, encourage performances, and provide certainty for businesses, residents, and patrons.

Measures include acoustic monitoring, soundproofing standards for new developments, clear complaints processes, and incentives such as reduced liquor licence fees and extended trading hours on live performance nights.

Council plans to consult extensively with stakeholders, including licensed venues, live performance operators, NSW Police, and the Kiama Business Network, to finalise the precinct boundaries.

Acoustic assessments and draft policies will inform the Night-Time Economy Strategy, which is expected to go on public exhibition next June and be adopted by October.

The one-year SEP trial will begin before June 2027.

Mayor Cameron McDonald has described the initiative as "a fantastic opportunity to support live music, strengthen our hospitality sector, and give visitors and locals more reasons to enjoy Kiama after dark”.