Credit: 24-Hour Economy NSW
The accreditation recognised the precinct as a safe, vibrant and well-managed night-time destination and aligned with NSW’s 24-Hour Economy Strategy.
YCK achieved this milestone by building a strong collaborative working group including venues, property owners, police, liquor accords, and representatives from City of Sydney and Transport for NSW. Collective initiatives such as precinct activations, increased outdoor seating, and precinct-wide marketing and promotion have improved perceptions of safety and vibrancy across the precinct. The working group also works closely together to gather precinct data to monitor compliance with Purple Flag criteria.
YCK Laneways Association Vice President Karl Schlothauer welcomed the precinct’s achievement as the first in NSW to be recognised as a Purple Flag precinct, positioning it as a safe and vibrant destination for hospitality, entertainment, and retail.
“Whether it’s for some retail therapy, to visit one of the superb small bars, grab a late-night bite or enjoy one of our regular arts and cultural events, we are committed to delivering our patrons a safe, friendly and fun experience”
Karl Schlothauer
Since accreditation, YCK has continued to expand its cultural programming. The precinct collective delivered ‘Summer Love’, a month-long event in January 2023 featuring over 130 free and ticketed events, and ‘The Night is Young’, a four-week festival held in late October and early November 2023 with over 50 late-night cultural events. In February 2024, the precinct hosted ‘Up Late and Loud’ a four-week in-venue activation celebrating NSW Government’s Vibrancy Reforms through live music, performances, and extended trading to showcase the precinct’s cultural energy and nightlife offering. Other highlights have included YCK’s participation in the Sydney Comedy Festival with curated comedy tours throughout the precinct (July 2024). The precinct also launched ‘The Station Project’ as part of the Community Improvement District Pilot program, transforming underused laneway spaces into creative, welcoming areas.
Credit: 24-Hour Economy NSW
YCK has also invested in initiatives that prioritise patron safety and inclusivity. Through the installation of the Clarence Street secure taxi rank which sits at the heart of the YCK precinct, the precinct has focused on providing a safe and convenient late-night transport option.
YCK has also adopted SafeSpace@elevate, an independent reporting and support service digital platform to empower employees to report harmful behaviour, and helped enhance public realm safety through projects like Lightstream, a striking new lighting installation in York Lane.
Overall, these initiatives strengthen YCK’s reputation as a precinct that balances energy and entertainment with safety and inclusion. The Purple Flag accreditation has instilled confidence in both visitors and investors, driving growth in the hospitality sector and setting a benchmark for future accredited precincts as the Purple Flag program is rolled out statewide.
YCK illustrates how effective local leadership, strong partnerships with government, and consistent programming can transform a precinct into a vibrant and internationally recognised night-time destination.