What is the Night-time Economy with John O’Callaghan

2025-05-24

In this episode, I chat with planner, urban thinker and community engagement guru, John O’Callaghan, Director of JOC Consulting. John isn’t your average planner – and that’s exactly why I wanted him on the show. He’s a creative, a connector, and someone who’s built a career around authentic community engagement and transformational city ideas. Today, we’re talking about one of his passions: the night-time economy – and how cities can become more vibrant, inclusive, and alive after 6pm. 🎧 In our conversation, we e...

In this episode, I chat with planner, urban thinker and community engagement guru, John O’Callaghan, Director of JOC Consulting. John isn’t your average planner – and that’s exactly why I wanted him on the show.

He’s a creative, a connector, and someone who’s built a career around authentic community engagement and transformational city ideas.

Today, we’re talking about one of his passions: the night-time economy – and how cities can become more vibrant, inclusive, and alive after 6pm.

🎧 In our conversation, we explore:

John's journey into planning and how he blends creativity into his work
Why the nighttime economy is about so much more than just bars and restaurants
The role planning plays in enabling great after-hours places
Trends and ideas shaping the next wave of nighttime city-making

Whether you're a planner, a place maker, or just passionate about better cities – this episode is for you.

🗞 Before the conversation with John, we cover Planning Headlines

On 13 May, a State Facilitated Development (SFD) for a proposed 73-unit, 8-storey development in Redland Bay was revoked by Queensland’s Deputy Premier and Planning Minister. This proposal exceeded the local 4-storey height limit and faced strong community opposition.
👉 SFD Revocation Notice.PDF
Brisbane’s Lord Mayor has announced a review of the Low-Medium Density Residential Zone. This is a significant and timely move to support more gentle density in well-located areas. PIA has publicly welcomed this review.
👉 Read PIA’s full response: Planning Ahead: A Better Mix of Homes for Brisbane’s Future

📝 Submissions Update

We’ve lodged our submission to the Planning and Other Legislation Amendment Bill, focused on the social impact and community benefit framework. QLD | Response to Inquiry into Planning and Other Leg Amendment Bill 2025
We’re also working on a submission to the Productivity Commissioner on construction productivity – due 2 June.

📅 Upcoming Events

I’m heading to PIA National Congress this week in Garramilla/Darwin – and I can’t wait! It’s always such a great opportunity to connect with peers, hear big ideas, and visit one of my favourite cities.

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