Governments along the eastern seaboard are extending trading hours and putting on more public transport for Australia’s next FIFA World Cup match.
The Socceroos are due to play Egypt in Dallas, Texas, at 4am (AEST) on Saturday in an elimination Round of 32 clash.
Football Australia chief executive officer Martin Kugeler says: “These extended trading hours and transport measures will create an amazing festival atmosphere that only football can deliver.”
WHAT THE GOVERNMENTS ARE DOING
In New South Wales, the government is putting on 24-hour transport and early pub trading hours for the game.
Public transport services to live broadcast sites at Tumbalong Park (Darling Harbour) and Cathy Freeman Park (Homebush) in Sydney will include:
- Metro services every 20 minutes from 1:30am to 5am.
- Eary city-bound train services will start from Leppington at 2am, Penrith at 2:10am, from Hornsby
(via Chatswood and Epping) at 2:34am and Macarthur at 2:15am. - Services between Lidcombe and Olympic Park will start at 3am.
- Tram services will start over two hours earlier (L1, L2 and L3) at 2:30am.
Pubs, bars and clubs showing the game statewide can open from 3am; eligible venues authorised to trade until 1am or 2am will be able to carry on without briefly closing.
For more information or plan your trip, visit transportnsw.info
Transport Minister John Graham says: “I can’t wait to see the trains and the footy fans come alive so early. Moments like this take us a step closer to being a truly 24-hour economy.”
He also says the extra public transport will continue if the Socceroos can qualify for the finals.
Public Spaces Minister Paul Scully says thousands have already watched games at Tumbalong and Cathy Freeman parks.
“Public spaces like these exist for moments exactly like this one. Whether it is 4am or 4pm, we want Sydneysiders and visitors alike to be able to gather, celebrate and make the most of the city around them,” he says.
Sports Minister Steve Kamper says they are “making it easier” for people to support the team.
Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou says “major sporting events, local or international, bring energy to our city and deliver a significant boost to Sydney’s economy” and that reliable public transport is essential.
VICTORIAN APPROVAL
In Victoria, Premier Jacinta Allen has given her automatic approval for all licensed venues to open for the game.
“That means doors open, big screen on – everyone welcome,” she says.
“Venues showing the broadcast can stay open all night and the last service will be an hour after the match ends.”
Live sites will run at Fed Square and AAMI Park which will feature a free hot breakfast, a seat and space.
QUEENSLAND TRIAL
As part of a trial, pubs and clubs across Queensland can trade from 3am to 7am on game day but must have been pre-approved.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Deb Frecklington claims they’ve “taken a practical approach so pubs and clubs can open”.
“It’s a targeted measure that keeps the focus exactly where it should be – on the game, the fans and a great community atmosphere.”
Housing Minister Sam O’Connor says the trial will boost the state’s night economy and keep patrons safe.
“Big moments like this are what our night-time economy is all about, bringing people together to share an experience and celebrate,” he says.
“At the same time, safety remains front and centre.”
CANBERRA SITES
There will be two live sites or local pubs and clubs that will be showing the game, says the ACT Government.
Dozens of local pubs, clubs and venues will stream the match while Garema Place will have a large screen for a live broadcast of the game.
The Garema Place live site will also have a larger screen installed to enhance the viewing experience for fans with neighbouring businesses to also operate before or after the match.
The University of Canberra’s Refectory will also serve as a live site.
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