MELBOURNE: Night-time boom


Melbourne has Australia’s fastest-growing night-time economy, with employment growing more than six times faster than the national average.
The latest Measuring the Night-time Economy Report 2026 shows almost 3,000 new jobs and nearly 180 new venues were added between 2024 and 2025 – fuelled by Melburnians embracing the city on weeknights and weekends.
The food sector has been the biggest drawcard for after-dark visitors, accounting for 77 per centof new businesses and creating 2300 jobs.
The data shows Melburnians – particularly younger people – are seeking experiences for a night out, with the leisure and entertainment category growing at twice the national rate.