Reviving the Live Music Scene!
- Entertainment
- Policy
Clubs play an important role in the live music sector, either by hosting live music gigs or promoting events to their large membership bases. For many people, enjoying a live music performance at their local club is the perfect way to spend a Saturday night. What could be better than singing and dancing to your favourite tunes with loved ones?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the live music scene encountered significant challenges, but the Commonwealth Government is dedicated to revitalising it. With an influx of gigs and a growing enthusiasm for attending live performances, the industry is working hard to bring back the vibrant energy of the music industry to its former glory.
Recently, the Commonwealth Government announced an inquiry on the challenges and opportunities within the Australian live music industry.
The Standing Committee on Communications and the Arts has been tasked with the responsibility of considering the following:
- sustainability and growth of the industry
- suitability and location of venues for organisers, participants, and attendees
- artist development and career pathways
- capacity building in facilitation and promotion of events and festivals
- local economic benefits
- grant and support programs
- audience development and consumer behaviours
- barriers to growing the Australian industry, both domestically and internationally, including those relating to export, and
- building sustainability in the industry, domestically and internationally.
ClubsNSW, through Clubs Australia, provided a submission highlighting the club industry’s contributions to supporting emerging and established live music artists.
Clubs have told us that they still face challenges in hosting live gigs, prompting us to address these issues in our response.
Clubs Australia recommended:
- The Australian Government continue to provide additional support to clubs hosting live music through the Live Music Grant Program.
- The Australian Government plays a more significant role in fostering and strengthening relationships between artists and clubs.
- The Australian Government works with state and territory governments to streamline the process for clubs to host outdoor live music.
- Simplifying the process for clubs to host indoor entertainment through Building Code class.
The committee will soon begin reviewing submissions and exploring ways to address any challenges the sector may face, with the aim of fostering a thriving arts nation.
Clubs can stay up to date on the committee’s progress here.
