At almost 11pm on a Saturday night, the multi-generational crowds packed in restaurants such as Hai Au Lang Nuong show no sign of waning. Tuk-tuks line the footpaths, and inside, children play on retro video game consoles as their families dine nearby.
“There used to be a big stigma with this area, but now it’s completely changed,” Nguyen said. “If you want authentic Asian food as late as 5am, you can always find something to eat here.”
Evening crowds at Canley Vale and Canley Heights often span multiple generations.Credit: Sitthixay Ditthavong
There is also “Canley Heights Nights”, a neighbouring area up the road run by district co-ordinator Seng Ly.
Separate from the local Little Asia initiative is the recently launched 12-month trial of a state government-led “special entertainment precinct” in Canley Vale and Canley Heights. Nguyen hopes having a two-pronged approach will boost activity.
Businesses part of the “Little Asia” precinct in Canley Vale are marked by bright red signs.Credit: Sitthixay Ditthavong
Dubbed “The Canleys”, the precinct is part of the government’s broader vibrancy reforms aimed at relaxing rules around trading hours, live music and noise for restaurants and bars within a defined area.
For example, venues in such precincts can stay open for two hours longer on nights when live music is offered, and one hour longer on other nights. The policy also prevents single noise complaints from shutting a venue down and offers an 80 per cent reduction in liquor licence fees.
“The Canleys will breathe new life into our night-time economy, and will stand as a vibrant hub for dining, entertainment, and connection, an experience people will want to return to time and time again,” Fairfield City Mayor Frank Carbone said.
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