Bx After Dark
Bathurst Regional Night-Time Economy Program
A collaborative initiative strengthening Bathurst’s night-time economy, regional identity and community life.
Bathurst has been recognised as one of only ten regional centres across New South Wales selected to participate in the NSW Government’s Regional Night-Time Economy Program, delivered by the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner.
The successful application, prepared by Elevate, brings together a collaborative Bathurst Business Collective representing accommodation, hospitality, tourism, beverage production and major events.
Supported by key regional partners, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Bathurst’s evening economy while enhancing the region’s identity as a vibrant place to live, work, connect and invest.
More than an initiative focused on activity after dark, the program represents an important opportunity for businesses and organisations across the region to collaborate on place-making, economic growth and community vitality.
Program Overview
The Regional Night-Time Economy Program supports regional business collectives to explore initiatives that enhance vibrancy after dark through dedicated support and funding from the NSW Government.
This program will run from the 1st July 2026 through to the 30th June 2027.
In Bathurst, the program brings together businesses across hospitality, accommodation, tourism, beverage production and major events to collaborate on ideas and initiatives that strengthen the region’s evening economy.
Elevate prepared the successful application on behalf of the Bathurst Business Collective, reflecting a shared vision for a more vibrant, connected and resilient regional centre.
Elevate CEO Rhonda Taylor said the program recognises the strength of collaboration within the Bathurst business community.
“Bathurst is a region that knows how to collaborate, and this program gives local businesses the opportunity to work together to shape the next chapter of our night-time economy,” Ms Taylor said.
“The application was prepared by Elevate to bring together a diverse group of local operators who share a commitment to strengthening Bathurst after dark and supporting our region’s broader economy.”
Regional Collaboration
The Bathurst application prepared by Elevate was endorsed and supported by key regional organisations, demonstrating strong collaboration across government, industry and community leadership.
Supporting Organisations
- Bathurst Regional Council
- Bathurst Business Chamber
- Destination Network Central West
- Supercars
- Wirdyuri Traditional Owners Central West Aboriginal Corporation
(trading as Wambuul and Wahluu)
Their involvement reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Bathurst’s economy, supporting community life and contributing to the region’s identity as a vibrant and welcoming regional centre.
Strengthening Bathurst After Dark
While hospitality, tourism and events play an important role in activating the evening economy, the benefits extend well beyond these sectors.
A thriving night-time economy contributes to:
- stronger local supply chains
- increased employment opportunities
- enhanced retail and hospitality activity
- greater opportunities for local creatives and producers
- a more vibrant and connected community
- increased attractiveness for residents, students, visitors and investors
By encouraging collaboration across industries, the program helps strengthen Bathurst’s reputation as a dynamic and welcoming regional centre.
Elevate’s Role
Elevate prepared the successful application and continues to act as the coordinating body for the Bathurst Business Collective.
Through collaboration, shared planning and coordinated promotion, Elevate works to support initiatives that strengthen the region’s economy and enhance Bathurst’s identity as a vibrant regional city.
The Regional Night-Time Economy Program aligns with Elevate’s broader mission of supporting regional economic development through collaboration, place-making and regional branding.
Program Updates
Over the course of the program, Elevate will share updates on initiatives, industry collaboration and outcomes.
Updates may include:
- industry workshops and collaboration sessions
- business initiatives and evening activations
- industry capability programs
- regional partnerships and projects
- program milestones and outcomes
Media & Announcements
Read the announcement:
Bathurst Night-Time Economy Media Release
Further updates will be shared as the program progresses.
Interested in being part of our evolving projects?
Contact our Elevate team today to find out what opportunities are available to join our future initiatives.
Yinaagalangbu, gibirbangbu, buraaygalangbu gawaymbanhadhu nginyalgir Wiradjurigu ngurambanggu.
Ladies, gentleman and children welcome to Wiradjuri and to country.