Running a café or restaurant in New South Wales could soon involve less paperwork, under a new review aimed at easing administrative burdens on small hospitality operators.
The Minns Government has asked the NSW Productivity and Equality Commissioner to examine how government processes affect more than 50,000 food retail businesses across the state. The review will focus on interactions that can frustrate small day-time operators, including licences and permits, reporting requirements and inspections.
The move follows an earlier examination of barriers in the night-time economy. Lessons from reforms introduced to support after-dark businesses will inform efforts to improve productivity during daylight hours in areas ranging from Newtown and Bankstown to regional centres such as Narrabri and Ballina.
Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the objective was straightforward. “Our job is to make government easier to deal with.
“This review will look for duplicated reporting, provide clear guidance, and limit unnecessary disruptions for small hospitality operators.
“When we cut red tape, we free up time, reduce costs, and let small businesses focus on what they do best — creating jobs and keeping our local economies vibrant.”
The review will assess whether existing requirements are repetitive or unnecessarily complex, while maintaining regulatory standards. The government said regulation remains important for equity, safety and consumer protection, and any changes would target duplication rather than safeguards.
Minister for Small Business Janelle Saffin said hospitality operators play a central role in communities across the state. “Small businesses like cafés and restaurants are an incredibly important part of local communities, adding vibrancy, social amenity, boosting the local economy and creating a place for people to meet.
“We want our business owners focusing on their customers and their craft, not spending more time than they need to on paperwork.
“Our government is committed to working with the small business community to make their life a bit easier, and this review will help us understand how we can best achieve that.”
The announcement builds on several earlier measures, including the launch of the state’s first Charter for Small Business, changes to workers compensation settings aimed at addressing rising insurance premiums, legislation intended to revitalise the night-time economy, and steps to simplify planning processes for outdoor dining.
The Productivity and Equality Commissioner will consult directly with businesses and is expected to deliver a final report with recommendations to the government in late August 2026.
The government said the aim is to ensure food retailers can spend more time serving customers and less time navigating administrative requirements, while maintaining existing standards and protections.
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