Industry, investors, and entrepreneurs are expected to benefit from the changes. Photo: LinkedIn/Chris Minns.
Premier Chris Minns has announced the state’s industry, innovation, trade and investment functions will be returned to the centre of government.
From 1 July the Premier’s Department will absorb the powers of Investment NSW, along with the office of the Chief Scientist and Engineer.
The changes are expected to make it easier for industry, investors, and entrepreneurs to participate in major government priorities. Incorporating Investment NSW will also return management of unsolicited proposals to the Premier’s control.
“This is a government that is focused on opening up Sydney and NSW for business, boosting the economy and creating jobs in these important sectors,” the Premier said.
Another significant alteration is the renaming of the Department of Enterprise, Investment and Trade (DEIT) as the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport.
It will take on all the remaining functions and entities currently part of or related to DEIT, including government agencies Venues NSW, NSW Institute of Sport and the Office of Sport.
Part of the government’s intent – according to Minister for the Arts, Jobs and Tourism John Graham – is to cultivate thriving creative industries and night-time economies across the state.
“This in turn creates greater employment across a range of sectors – and more economic activity across a greater proportion of the day,” Minister Graham said.
He said the department would also oversee the state’s first arts, culture and creative industries policy.
“This is a key framework for investment in the creative industries and our vibrant cities agenda – creating more equitable places to work, live and play.”
NSW Sports Minister Steve Kamper said bringing these agencies together would line up sporting and entertainment offerings, so that Sydney and NSW could be cemented as the premier destination for the Asia Pacific.
“Lifting the concert cap is a fantastic example of what is possible,” said Mr Kamper. “This policy alone is set to deliver over $1 billion in local economic activity and increase Venues NSW’s revenue by as much as $210 million over the next 10 years, whilst also delivering opportunities for our local artists.”
The governmental changes will be implemented following approval by the Governor-in-Council Margaret Beazley.
