Arabic version: بريزبن تستطلع آراء السكان لإعداد خطة اقتصاد الفجر

According to ABC News, Brisbane City Council has launched a survey on residents’ early-morning habits to shape a new Dawn Economy Plan. The survey asks locals about their experiences in Brisbane between 4am and 7am and will remain open until midnight on November 22.

The council says responses will help it improve park facilities, pathways and public transport options during the early hours. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Brisbane already had a thriving dawn economy, with people choosing to get up early, be active and spend time out in the city.

University of Melbourne research fellow Dr Anna Edwards found Brisbane has one of Australia’s most active early-morning trading periods. Her analysis showed that 13 per cent of the city’s food and drink businesses are open between 5am and 6am, while about half are serving customers by 8am. Dr Edwards said the council’s community consultation was a positive first step, noting that planning often focuses on space rather than timing.

Business owners say early trade is important. Blaine Swanborough, co-owner of a Mitchelton cafe that opens at 6am, said customers are commonly out and about by then, while trade falls later in the morning as temperatures rise, particularly in summer. Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams said the plan could build on the city’s early-rising character and support a 24-hour city without detracting from the night-time economy.

Opposition leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, saying Brisbane needed investment in infrastructure and services. He pointed to early-morning public transport, as well as lighting in parks and bikeways to support active travel during winter months.