NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025-2028

The 1.27 million night workers across the state play a vital role in keeping NSW running after dark and in the early morning.

As a key priority in the NSW 24-Hour Economy Strategy, the state’s first Night Worker Action Plan moves beyond research to propose practical, targeted interventions for night workers. It identifies opportunities over the next 3 years to improve safety, amenity, wellbeing and recognition of the night workforce, while laying the foundation for longer-term change.

Download the NSW Night Worker Action Plan

Two engineers in protective clothing replacing the timber deck with sparks flying

The Night Worker Action Plan sets out priority actions from 2025 to 2028 through initiatives that make night work safer, healthier and more supported.

This includes:

Better facilities for gig workers: testing new hubs with access to rest areas and toilets.

Health and wellbeing support: a new guide for night workers, backed by a campaign to raise awareness.

Stronger protections at work: improving safety and exploring tailored induction programs to help night workers feel confident and supported.
Listening to night workers: including night work in safety surveys and campaigns to better understand and respond to worker needs.
Starting a national conversation: advocating for a clear, shared definition of night work to help shape better policies and support.

The night workforce in the wider 24-Hour Economy Strategy

The 24-hour workforce is a prioritised focus area in the 24-Hour Economy Strategy. Action 3.1 under Pillar 3: Night Workers, Culture and Industry Collaboration commits to developing a new strategy for NSW’s 24-hour workforce which is realised in this plan.

While focused on Pillar 3, the plan also supports Pillar 4: Safety, Mobility, Access and Inclusion by addressing transport, safety and service access needs for night workers.

To explore all the pillars in more detail, visit the 24-Hour Economy Strategy.

Framework for website - strategic pillars

Night worker

Definition: An individual engaged in work during the period of 6pm to 6am, include those whose shifts over lap with these hours regularly or occasionally, across all industries and employment types.*

*Shortened definition, for full definition see page 12 in the Night Worker Action Plan.

We’ve heard from night workers and employers about their challenges, and this action plan sets out the next steps for the government to work alongside businesses and industry to better support these vital workers.
24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues