The Future of the Dark @UNSW House | Thur 12 Nov

It is ingrained for us to fear the dark, the unknown. Seen as a mysterious entity, there is a need to lift the veil of the unfamiliar. From matter to terrain, oceans to skies, these conversations will bring to light new discoveries that will pave the way for better futures.

The Future of the Dark @UNSW House | Thursday, 12 November session

After Dark Forum: The Future Of The Night

2–3pm | Thursday 12 November

Presented in collaboration with the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, this forum explores the evolving role of precincts and placemaking as Sydney's axis of the night shifts west. Harnessing insights from Data After Dark presented by Dr Xiangyi Kong, this forum featuring Jade D'Amico, Aileen Robalino, Dr Phillip Wadds moderated by the 24-Hour Commissioner Michael Rodrigues, will bring together people and placemaking across Western Sydney.

Speakers

Jade D' Amico is a photographer who draws on their Argentinian and Italian heritage to explore memory, identity and community in their practice. Their work and subjects show a deep connection to youth culture, music and community in south-west Sydney. D' Amico works across fashion, music and event photography and has made work for Pania, Billy Maree, Jesswar, Astrophe Magazine and Vice AU. Their commission immerses audiences in Sydney's music and club culture, showing the energy and euphoria of the dancefloor.

Michael Rodrigues is NSW's 24-Hour Economy Commissioner and a leading voice in how cities can function beyond the traditional 9-to-5. He leads the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, positioning the night-time and emerging morning economy as essential infrastructure. His work connects music, culture, hospitality and nightlife to place-based policy and investment, supported by better data sharing and innovation. Since his appointment in 2021, he has driven system-wide reforms strengthening NSW's position as a global leader in 24-hour economy governance. Previously, he founded the Night Time Industries Association and launched Time Out Sydney, shaping one of the city's leading cultural platforms. His background is in law and civil engineering.

Dr Phillip Wadds is Associate Professor in Criminology in the School of Law, Society & Criminology in the Faculty of Law & Justice at UNSW, and a member of the Centre for Criminology, Law & Justice. His research explores alcohol and drug-related harm, nightlife culture, public safety and the social dynamics of urban entertainment precincts. Drawing on extensive fieldwork and policy engagement, he examines how cities can balance the vibrancy of nightlife with safety, inclusion and accessibility.

Dr Xiangyi Kong is an economist dedicated to leveraging contemporary economic theories and models to help the government foster a more prosperous economy for all, driving positive change across diverse communities. Currently, Dr Kong leads the Data After Dark project at the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, where he oversees the development of a pioneering data platform designed to generate comprehensive, real-time insights into NSW's night-time economy.

Aileen Robalino leads the Night-Time Economy portfolio at the City of Parramatta, contributing to Night-Time Economy and Cultural Strategy development, innovative grant programs, the growth of the cultural and creative night-time economy, and a vibrant 24-hour Parramatta CBD. Previously, as Producer, Public Programs at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, she collaborated with curators and local and international artists to deliver programs and events across all forms and scales.