Articles

On a crisp evening at Odd Culture Newtown, more than 60 local business owners and creatives came together to launch something bold: a shared district identity for Newtown, Enmore and Erskineville.

With a new precinct map, brand, and the first edition of TOWNMAG, the launch marked a turning point for the NEBC — a grassroots business community building visibility, trust, and a clear voice for its members.

From vinyl spun by Papa Disco to heartfelt speeches (and a spreadsheet from our MC), the night celebrated everything that makes this precinct special: collaboration, character, and culture with edge. Showcasing the creative produced by Good Decisions in collaboration with our community.

City of Sydney - Reboot webinar series 2025

Free webinar series to help small businesses, creatives and retailers learn, innovate and grow.

The 2025 series explores the essential business fundamentals you need to master to successfully run your business.

What is the Car Boot Sleep Out?

On 13 May, Car Boot participants will convene on the rooftop of Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre for an interactive and educational program that includes activities and hearing directly from people with lived experience of homelessness. And, of course, everyone sleeps in their car as a symbolic gesture of solidarity for those who have no choice each and every night.

With support from the City of Sydney, our precinct map is entering its final stages. Designed and led by Lachlan Bruce of Good Decisions, the new interactive map highlights key business areas—King St North, King St South, Enmore Rd, Erskineville Rd, and Australia St—and will appear both digitally and in high-traffic locations like Newtown Station.

This is more than a map—it’s part of a broader campaign to boost visibility for our business community, with a fresh brand identity, digital storytelling, social media rollout and signage upgrades on the horizon.

After nine incredible years shaping the Inner West hospitality scene, Ella Collins is heading to Melbourne. A founding force behind our committee and fierce advocate for the precinct, Ella’s leadership and passion for the Purple Flag program have left a lasting legacy. We’re thrilled to welcome Oscar McMahon as our new Vice Chair — a long-time committee member equally committed to growing our membership and championing our diverse business community. All committee roles will be up for re-election at our AGM in September 2025.

THE OLDER WOMEN'S NETWORK WAS BORN OUT OF A NECESSITY TO HAVE THE VOICES OF OLDER WOMEN HEARD

The aim of each OWN Group is to promote the rights, dignity and wellbeing of older women.

There are currently 17 groups operating across NSW, including 7 wellness centres. 

Groups organise a wide range of activities and advocate on issues of concern to older women according to the aims and objectives defined by the members.

Learn more about their mission and structure, and find out what they do.

Good Access is Good Business - Guide Dogs NSW/ACT

As part of the “Good Access is Good Business” campaign, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is offering hospitality businesses in Sydney’s Local Government Area (LGA) free access to a short online course on assisting people with blindness or low vision. This course is easy to complete and offers simple actions that can make your business more inclusive.

Women In Business Programme

The Inner West Council is committed to fostering a thriving environment for women in business through its dedicated Women In Business Programme. This initiative aims to support female entrepreneurs by providing access to resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship. By hosting workshops, seminars, and community events, the council empowers women to develop their skills, share their experiences, and elevate their businesses. The programme not only highlights the contributions of women in the local economy but also promotes gender equality and encourages a vibrant, diverse business landscape within the community.

Inner West Council, the Design Centre Enmore, and Petersham TAFE are partnering with local businesses to promote job opportunities for students. These opportunities will be listed with the TAFE to enhance visibility and accessibility for those seeking employment.

The annual nner West Council Community Awards Programme honours the annual Community Awards to celebrate Inner West community members who live, study, work and volunteer across our local government area. Our awards recognise and celebrate locals who are making outstanding contributions to our community and making a difference in the Inner West. The Community Awards are a chance to nominate these individuals and groups and have their contribution recognised. Nominees and award recipients will be celebrated as part of a ceremony event in May 2025 as part of NSW Volunteer Week.

Neon Marketplace is an online B2B marketplaces created by the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner designed to provide more opportunities for collaborations, activations and initiatives in local business communities - all in one place.

Any business can sign up, post opportunities, events, offers, and connect with artists, professionals and other businesses.

We have created a District on the NEON Marketplace for Newtown and Enmore (and we will accept any businesses in Erskineville also), for any of our business community to fall with our District page.