NYE in Sydney: Book Ahead or Celebrate from Home

A seven-minute midnight New Year’s Eve (NYE) firework display will bring in 2021 and premium viewing spots will be reserved for frontline workers to say thank you for keeping NSW safe throughout this year.

Member for Manly, James Griffin has welcomed the move. “There is no doubt that 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone.” He said.

“While the Harbour’s best vantage points will be reserved for these frontline workers, I’m encouraging everyone in the Northern Beaches to support their local businesses on the night, or celebrate from home”

The NSW Government has developed a set of COVID-Safe measures specific to NYE to ensure the community remains safe while bringing in the new year. Measures include:

Premium spots reserved for frontline workers around Mrs Macquarie’s Point, Sydney Opera House, Campbell’s Cove and the Cahill Expressway. Frontline workers will be nominated by their respective agencies.

• A designated Green Zone will be established around Circular Quay and North Sydney. Patrons, hospitality workers, residents and guests of local residents will need to register for a pass through Service NSW.
• A designated Yellow Zone will also be established around the Green Zone and people looking to gather in this area on NYE will potentially be subject to move-on Police powers to ensure the community is COVID-Safe.
• Anyone with a confirmed booking at a venue within the Green Zone will be required to show an event pass prior to entry. Passes will be available via Service NSW.
• Anyone without a pass will be turned away from the Green Zone area.
• Venues with allocated outdoor seating will be restricted to 1 person per 2 square metres or 3,000 people (whichever is less)
• Venues with without allocated outdoor seating will be restricted to 1 person per four square metres or 3,000 people (whichever is less)

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that while a small celebration will go ahead on the night, community safety is always the Government’s priority.

“Everyone must remember we are still in the middle of a global pandemic, and now is not the time to let our guard down,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“New Year’s Eve celebrations will be symbol of hope and optimism for next year. It is also an opportunity to thank people across NSW who have stepped up during this difficult time.”

The NSW Government will continue to work with councils, residents and businesses to ensure everyone can enjoy a safe and memorable evening.

More information on the event will be available on www.nsw.gov.au/NYE