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NSW Government Introduces Reforms and Inquiry Examines Challenges for Live Music Sector

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NSW Takes Two-Pronged Approach to Revitalise Live Music

A New South Wales parliamentary inquiry into live music has commenced hearings, while the state government has introduced new legislation aimed at supporting the industry. The two developments address overlapping issues such as costs, transport, and audience access.

Legislative Reforms

The NSW government has introduced a bill containing provisions to support live music venues and festivals. Key changes include:

  • Noise Measurement: Noise levels will be assessed using an average measurement method rather than focusing on one-off spikes, potentially reducing fines for venues.
  • All-Ages Support: A proposed $500,000 fund would provide grants of up to $100,000 to venues that book, stage, and present at least three all-ages live music events annually.
  • Genre Protections: The legislation includes measures to prevent unfair fees or bias against specific music genres.

The reforms follow the repeal of lockout laws in January, which had required venues in certain areas to implement a 1:30 am lockout and cease serving alcohol by 3 am. A 2016 report indicated those laws led to a 40 percent decline in live music revenue in affected zones.

Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said the legislation was designed to improve the state's reputation for live music, which he noted had suffered due to lockout laws and pandemic lockdowns.

Parliamentary Inquiry

A separate NSW parliamentary inquiry into live music has received over 100 submissions and held its first public hearing on Monday. Stakeholders presented evidence on several challenges.

Transport

  • Alex Poirer, president of Musicians NSW (Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance), stated that he commutes from Penrith to Sydney's city for music activities, underscoring the role of urban planning and public transport.
  • Greens MP and inquiry member Cate Faehrmann raised the issue of limited night-time public transport and proposed fare-free travel, possibly from Thursday to Sunday after 6pm. She said Sydney's urban sprawl and transport limitations restrict access to live music, especially for young people living outside the city centre.
  • 24-hour economy commissioner Michael Rodrigues cited extended public transport timetabling for Mardi Gras as an example of a successful initiative. He stated that safe, reliable, affordable transport is key to encouraging attendance, but noted that extended services must be sustainable due to costs.

Costs

  • The Australian Festival Association told the inquiry that rising costs for organisers, including insurance and policing, are affecting the industry.
  • Chief executive Olly Arkins said high insurance costs influence ticket prices, program sizes, and opportunities for emerging musicians. He added that NSW has the highest government-imposed charges on events of any Australian jurisdiction.
  • The hearing also heard calls for greater cost transparency in policing and liquor licensing.

Audience Engagement

  • Emily Collins, head of Sound NSW, told the inquiry that engaging younger audiences is important for the future of live music. She noted changes in youth behaviour, including lower alcohol consumption and increased competition from online entertainment.
  • Michael Rodrigues said providing affordable, diverse options closer to communities is important, and that nightlife should not rely solely on alcohol.

Stakeholder Reactions

  • Sam Nardo, chief executive of Sydney's Metro Theatre, welcomed the legislative changes. He stated that COVID-19 had halted their under-18s programs and that the reforms could "fast-track those sorts of programs."
  • Musicians Dave Symes and John Hart of the band Boy and Bear emphasised the importance of accessible events for all ages.
  • Adele Robinson, chair of the Australian Festivals Association, said festival-goers could expect improved sound quality under the new noise measurement rules.
  • John Graham acknowledged that NSW previously had a "poor reputation" for all-ages gigs and described the legislation as a long-term commitment.

Next Steps

The parliamentary inquiry hearings are scheduled to recommence on June 16.