The NSW government is tearing up an “antiquated” rule that currently prevents people living within five kilometres of a club from signing in without first becoming a member – even if they want to just enter their local club or RSL for a meal or drink.
Under current legislation, people living within the five-kilometre radius must typically pay a membership fee, demonstrate membership of a similar club elsewhere, or attend as the guest of an existing member to enter, while those living beyond the five-kilometre radius can freely sign in as visitors.
The state government believes removing the rule will encourage more locals to enjoy their nearby clubs before choosing whether or not to become a member.
Scrapping the 5km rule is part of the next tranche of state government’s Vibrancy Reforms to be introduced to Parliament next month. The Vibrancy Reforms aim to remove red tape and encourage more live music and local entertainment zones, especially at night.
“This proposed change will free people up to visit their local club without the obligation and cost to sign up as a member,” Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said.
“Of course, clubs will still attract members like they always have, with the benefits of belonging to a club, but this change will mean locals can visit and enjoy a meal, a drink and maybe a gig, without having to join.
“Our reforms are about streamlining processes so businesses can focus on delivering a great experience for their patrons, while giving people greater access to venues in their local community.”
The move has been welcomed by the sector, with ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant describing it as a “fantastic outcome” for clubs.
“It’s about providing clubs with the choice, and for many clubs — particularly golf and sailing clubs who have social membership caps — this will make a huge difference,” she said.
“Any legislation that makes it more difficult to visit and enjoy clubs is not in the interest of our industry or our communities. We want people to become members of their local club so that they can enjoy discounted meals, drinks and entertainment, and all of the other wonderful benefits that being a club member delivers — not because a piece of legislation requires them to.”
Norths Collective CEO Luke Simmons believes the removal reflects the changing needs of communities.
“No longer requiring locals to adhere to the 5km rule once the law is passed will see clubs continue to adopt their membership policies and unique value proposition on offer,” he said.
“The rule reflects a different time and the change supports a broader return to clubs as people become better aware of how much value for money our clubs provide connecting their community.”
Workers Lifestyle Group CEO Morgan Stewart shared a similar sentiment.
“Workers Lifestyle Group is broadly in favour of making it easier for locals and others to access a club, without the mandatory requirement of having to join a club if you live within 5km,” he said.
“Our clubs will still offer a member versus non-member price differential. We will still ask for ID and non-members will need to sign in. We will continue to advocate for the use of facial recognition, as it enhances patrons’ safety, venue security and harm minimisation, including detecting and preventing entry to excluded people.”