The antiquated rule that prevents people living within five kilometres of a Club from signing in without first becoming a member is being torn up as part of the NSW Government’s ongoing crusade against pointless red tape strangling our nightlife.

The 5km rule has been responsible for countless head-scratching moments and unexpected paperwork over the years for people just wanting to enter their local Club or RSL for a meal or beverage.

Removing the rule is expected to encourage more locals to enjoy their nearby Clubs before choosing whether or not to become a member.

Consigning the 5km rule to history is part of the next tranche of commonsense Vibrancy Reforms to be introduced to Parliament next month. This includes the removal of the outdated restrictions that prevented patrons from standing while drinking outside a licenced premises.

The first round of Vibrancy Reforms:

  • Permanently relaxed the rules for outdoor dining, allowing venues to make the most of their outdoor space
  • Ended single noise complaints from shutting down pubs and other licensed venues
  • Made it easier to activate streets for festivals and events (Open Streets program) and a regulatory model that allows streamlined approvals for repeat events (Permit, Plug, Play)
  • Expanded Special Entertainment Precincts that empower local councils to change the rules around noise and opening hours in a designated area to support live entertainment and nightlife
  • Increased incentives for live music and live performance, with two hours extended trading and an 80% reduction in liquor licence fees for licensed venues offering live music and performance
  • Created easier pathways for extended trading hours for major events like the Olympics and World Cups.

Under current legislation, residents living within 5kms of their local club must sign up as a member and typically pay a membership fee, demonstrate membership of a similar club elsewhere, or attend as the guest of an existing member.

The current restrictions reduce the likelihood of people regularly attending their local Club, or even trying it out for the first time - while those living beyond 5kms can freely sign in as visitors.

Clubs will still be able to attract new members with member-only incentives and access to their many facilities such as gyms and swimming pools.

This is part of the NSW Government’s commitment to develop vibrant communities that improve the lives of people in NSW.

Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy John Graham said: “Red tape that gets in the way of people in NSW enjoying themselves for no discernible benefit will continue to go into the shredder under the Minns Labor Government.

“It has been an unwanted rite of passage for so many to be stuck in bureaucratic limbo over membership at the entry to a Club when all you want to do is go inside for a drink and a meal.

“Scrapping the 5km rule is just the start of our next round of reforms to reboot the nightlife and vibrancy of the state which are all about boosting the night-time economy, treating adults like adults and stripping back redundant red tape.”

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said: “This proposed change will free people up to visit their local club without the obligation and cost to sign up as a member.

“Of course, clubs will still attract members like they always have, with the benefits of belonging to a club, but this change will mean locals can visit and enjoy a meal, a drink and maybe a gig, without having to join.

“Our reforms are about streamlining processes so businesses can focus on delivering a great experience for their patrons, while giving people greater access to venues in their local community.”

ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant said: “We have long advocated for this change, so this is a fantastic outcome for our industry.

“It’s about providing clubs with the choice, and for many clubs — particularly golf and sailing clubs who have social membership caps — this will make a huge difference.

“We thank Minister Graham and Minister Harris for their support, and we look forward to working with the NSW Government on future vibrancy reforms.”

Norths Collective CEO Luke Simmons said: “Clubs are at the core of our community and their ability to remain relevant is essential for a sustainable future.

“Removing the ‘5km Rule’ enables all local residents to connect with their local club to listen to world class live music while enjoying great value food & beverage across so many fantastic indoor and outdoor venues.”