The NSW Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, John Graham, is set to unveil changes to the state's Music Festivals Act 2019, along with grants for festivals of certain sizes. The amendments shift focus from security to patron health and safety, according to reports from the Sydney Morning Herald.

Key updates include removing expensive high-risk classifications and mandating 'health plans' across the sector. Select events will formalize agreements with NSW Health without police enforcement involvement. There’s also a move towards "common sense" rules for all-age events, allowing those 16+ entry with an adult.

Additionally, a $3 million emergency package over two years targets festivals hosting more than 15,000 attendees—available until June 30, 2026. This announcement follows recent scrutiny over police costs impacting Mode Festival on Cockatoo Island and House Of Mince's venue change due to projected fees.

NSW Police will still advise on necessary safety measures where required. As these developments unfold, they could reshape festival operations in New South Wales significantly by prioritizing health while managing law enforcement roles effectively.