The New South Wales opposition has sparked debate by proposing free entry to all public viewing points for Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks, a move that has divided residents. Currently, about half of the public vantage points require tickets or charge fees, with some costing up to $595 for premium spots like the Garden Party at The Calyx in the Botanic Gardens.
Opposition Leader Chris Minns has made the pledge a key part of his 2023 state election campaign, arguing that the fireworks should be free for everyone. 'These are the most beautiful fireworks, in the most beautiful city, on the most beautiful harbour in the world. They should be free for all,' he said, noting that free ticketed areas could still ensure crowd control and safety.
Premier Dominic Perrottet dismissed the proposal as an 'embarrassing' indication of Labor's lack of policy depth, calling it 'bread and circuses.' The current pay-to-view model, introduced in 2011 and expanded to 20 locations, generates revenue that the government says supports science, horticulture, and conservation projects.
Public opinion is mixed. Some support free access, arguing that public parks should not require payment, while others see value in the ticketed system, noting that funds help state projects. Free tickets for some vantage points, such as those in Pyrmont and Milsons Point, sold out quickly this year.
