The “archaic” concert cap that has restricted events on the SCG precinct for over 20 years has been lifted by the NSW government.
An average of four concerts a year were allowed at the venue after the restrictions were introduced following a Rolling Stones concert – but the government has lifted this to 20 events a year.
The additional 16 events each year is estimated to inject up to $120 million into the NSW visitor economy annually.
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Of the 20 events allowed, two will be permitted to run as 10-hour festivals between the hours of 10am and 11pm.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said the increase in concerts at the venue was a huge win for the state’s economy and for live music.
“For too long NSW has missed out on world class acts because of an archaic restriction that killed fun in our city and hurt the economy,” he said.
“Sydney is Australia’s only global city and now it will finally be able to host more global acts on the world stage.”
Minister for Sport and Small Business Steve Kamper said the venue would now be used to its fullest potential.
“The red tape that has hampered our ability to host concerts at Allianz Stadium and the SCG has cost this state hundreds of millions of dollars,” he said.
“That red tape is officially gone, and Sydney can now secure more live music than ever before.
“By unlocking the stadium, we are also unlocking millions of dollars of economic activity for our local visitor economy and surrounding businesses.”
The cap increase comes after eight months of community and stakeholder engagement processes.