Full Breakdown
Amsterdam’s 24-Hour Licensing Model Inspires Melbourne’s Night-Economy Plans
By Drooid · · How we work
Amsterdam’s 24-Hour Licensing Pilot
Mirik Milan, co-founder of VibeLab and Amsterdam’s inaugural night mayor, championed a tender-based system that grants 24-hour liquor licences to venues in outer neighbourhoods within a 20-minute bike ride of the centre. Licences attach to the operator rather than the building and can be revoked at any time, giving operators flexibility to open and close as they see fit.
Background & Context
Amsterdam’s night-time economy has been constrained by strict closing times. Milan argues that many decision-makers have never experienced nightlife culture, leading to policies that “demonise” the night. He points to a safety initiative in Rembrandtplein, where “square hosts” in bright red jackets patrol weekends, mediating between patrons, police and venues. The program cut alcohol-related violence by 20 percent and public nuisance by 30 percent.
Melbourne’s authorities are looking to replicate aspects of this model. At the Cities After Dark summit, Maribyrnong Mayor Mohamed Semra highlighted a new park, library and 500-seat theatre—projected at $148 million, with $50 million each from state and federal governments, and construction slated for early 2027.
Data & Statistics
- 15 outer-city venues operating under the 24-hour licence scheme in Amsterdam.
- 20 percent reduction in alcohol-related violence and 30 percent drop in public nuisance at Rembrandtplein.
- $148 million total cost for the Creative West precinct in Footscray, with $100 million sought from government sources.
Official Statements & Responses
Maribyrnong City Council is piloting a “welcome crew” model in Footscray, deploying a two-person team from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday to gather feedback, support traders and coordinate council services. The council’s summit presented the Creative West precinct as “the solution” for the western suburbs, linking cultural development with economic growth.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The night has been demonised [since the year] 2000, or maybe even longer, for some folks’ advantage – to either stay in power, to not let certain ideas surface,” — Mirik Milan
- “There are now 15 of these venues in the outskirts of the city, [which] really [helps] to develop those areas into cultural hotspots,” — Mirik Milan
What’s Next
If Labor wins the upcoming state election, the 3 a.m. licence extension will become law, reshaping Melbourne’s night-time operating hours. Maribyrnong’s welcome-crew pilot will continue through the remainder of the year, while funding negotiations aim to secure the required $100 million before construction begins in early 2027.