Sydney Festival, Sydney Fringe Festival, Biennale of Sydney, Bluesfest, and Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras are among 14 newly designated “Foundation Events” set to benefit from reduced red tape.

According to a statement from John Graham, NSW Minister for the Arts, Music, the Night-time Economy, and Tourism:

“In classifying these events as Foundation Events, we not only protect them but also ensure their ongoing contribution to the NSW visitor economy, support for local businesses, and role as job creators.”

Artists of the 2024 Sydney Fringe Festival. Photo © Cassandra Hannagan

Events are a significant contributor to the NSW visitor economy. In 2023–24, events supported by Destination NSW generated $1b in visitor expenditure for the state.

“The new framework complements the NSW Government’s focus on experience tourism, ensuring visitors keep returning to enjoy our iconic events time and again,” Graham added.

Foundation Events will be prioritised for a minimum three-year Strategic Investment Agreement with Destination NSW (or three events for biennial events), with renewals negotiated one year before the final event in the agreement. This provides event organisers with greater certainty and...