Jo Haylen, Member for Summer Hill, welcomed Marrickville Council’s decision last night to allow food trucks to operate under similar regulations to the City of Sydney.

“This is a fantastic decision that will give a huge boost to our night-time economy,” said Ms Haylen.

“Food trucks are an essential element in global cities like New York and Toronto and I’m glad we can add Marrickville to that list!”

Ms Haylen moved the motion in Council after promoting a State-wide code with her NSW colleague Daniel Mookhey and City of Sydney Councillor Linda Scott.

“This is a great start, but a State-wide code would level the playing field for food truck operators and end the confusion for operators and customers alike,” said Ms Haylen.

“I’m proud to have worked with the community to drive this through Council,” Ms Haylen said.

Joe Jackson, who operates Vejoes Food Truck, spoke at the Council meeting about the need to support young entrepreneurs.

“I’m a young, local entrepreneur and I want to serve local people looking for good food,” said Mr Jackson.

“The red tape has made that impossible. People want to buy my food, but up until now, it’s been illegal for me to stop once I cross King Street.”

Pat McInerney, Brewer at Willie the Boatman’s in Tempe, also spoke, arguing the old regulations discouraged people from starting new businesses.

“I’ve had a ridiculous situation where my DA doesn't allow me to serve food. But under the Responsible Service Alcohol Act and the Liquor Act I am expected to serve food!” Mr Inerney said.

“Food trucks are an obvious answer to that problem and Council’s decision will encourage businesses to work together to get our night-life going,” Mr McInerney said.

“We spend a lot of time thinking about what we can’t do these days, so it’s refreshing to have politicians focusing on what can be done!”