Night-Life Economy Commissioner Bill 2024
Bill Story
The journey of this bill through Parliament, including debate and recorded votes.
Vote on a motion
Vote on the urgency motion to declare the Night-Life Economy Commissioner Bill, Cross-Border Commissioner Bill, and Queensland Food Farmers' Commissioner Bill as urgent, bypass committee referral, and limit total debate time to 40 minutes. The LNP, Greens, KAP and one independent opposed the motion due to the limited debate time, not the bills themselves. Passed 48-38.
The motion was agreed to.
A formal vote on whether to accept a proposal — this could be the bill itself, an amendment, or another motion.
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Ayes (48)
Noes (38)
Introduced the bill as Minister, stating it establishes a Night-Life Economy Commissioner to support, promote and advocate for night-life businesses and create a vibrant and safe night-life environment.
“The new Miles Labor government is committed to giving Queenslanders a good, safe night out and we are committed to our night-life businesses and their economic, employment and cultural contribution to Queensland. We are so serious that we are legislating it.”— 2024-08-20View Hansard
Referred to Education, Employment, Training and Skills Committee
Will not oppose the bill but criticised it as a rushed political fix with no consultation or engagement with industry, arguing the night-time economy faces genuine issues that deserve better than a last-minute stunt.
“This bill, though, does not feel like a genuine attempt to implement the solutions for the night-time economy. It has been rushed through very shortly before a state election with no consultation—and they are not my words; that is what the explanatory notes say.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard
Supported the bill to create a vibrant and safe night-life environment, citing local economic benefits from night-time activation including events like Wynnum Fringe.
“We have a real plan to keep our night-life vibrant, grow night-time activation in communities, attract more visitors, create more jobs and drive local economic outcomes.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard
Plain English Summary
Overview
This bill establishes a Night-Life Economy Commissioner to support and advocate for Queensland's night-life sector, including live music venues, bars, and entertainment businesses. The Commissioner will work with industry and government to promote the growth and sustainability of businesses that operate at night.
Who it affects
Night-life businesses such as live music venues, bars, clubs, and late-night entertainment operators gain a dedicated advocate. Workers and patrons may benefit from a stronger, more vibrant night-life sector.
Key changes
- Creates a statutory Night-Life Economy Commissioner role, appointed for up to 3 years
- Commissioner will advocate for night-life businesses to state, federal, and local governments
- Provides a central point of contact and advice service for businesses operating at night
- Commissioner can conduct inquiries into issues affecting the sector when directed by the Minister
- Requires annual reports to Parliament and a review of the Act after three years