What happens after dark matters more than ever

Australia’s cities don’t shut down at 5pm - and neither should our view of economic life. As office towers empty and commuter traffic fades, a new rhythm begins: kitchens fire up, supermarket shelves are restocked, bars and restaurants come alive, musicians take the stage, Uber drivers circle, and warehouses hum with activity. This is the night-time economy - a growing, often underappreciated network that reflects how efficiently cities use their time, assets and infrastructure.

Mapping the night-time

So why measure the night-time economy? Data helps us cuts through noise and reveals patterns, showing where communities thrive or are underserved after dark.

People in laneway restaurant at night People in laneway restaurant at night
Gen Z friends sharing a selfie at a city rooftop party. Featuring fun and celebration Gen Z friends sharing a selfie at a city rooftop party. Featuring fun and celebration

Gen Z owns the night, while Melbourne tops Australia’s night-time hotspots.

Life after dark is gaining momentum across Australia. New research shows our nights bring energy, diversity, and opportunity - making now the perfect time to rediscover them.

From Australia to the world

What can other cities around the world learn from the data in Australia? Check out Visa Perspectives for the global views.

Blur defocused background of people in festival, summer festival, family outdoors, festive fair Blur defocused background of people in festival, summer festival, family outdoors, festive fair

Download the whitepaper

Download Visa's Vibing the Night whitepaper including the full Visa Australia Night-time Economy Index.