Can Australian Music Survive in the Age of Spotify?
Seeking Your Feedback.
Australia’s live music ecosystem is under real and sustained pressure. While recent cultural policy reforms have acknowledged the value of music and creativity, the conditions facing Australian‑owned live music venues, promoters and workers on the ground continue to deteriorate.
In response, the Australian Live Music Business Council (ALMBC) has prepared a comprehensive submission to inform the next National Cultural Policy, grounded in evidence from across the live music industry.
This submission reflects what small music businesses are seeing every day: rising costs, declining margins, changing audience behaviour, insurance volatility, market concentration and regulatory frameworks that no longer match how live music actually operates. It makes clear that without structural reform, the grassroots venues and businesses that underpin artist development, local scenes and regional touring will continue to disappear.
The paper reinforces a key principle ALMBC has long advocated: live music venues should be recognised and supported as cultural infrastructure. They are not interchangeable with hospitality businesses. These spaces create Australian work, amplify Australian stories, sustain First Nations cultural expression and generate measurable economic and social value in cities and regions alike.
The submission outlines practical, industry‑led solutions—ranging from planning and regulatory reform, sustainable funding and tax settings, ticketing protections and insurance reform, to clearer national coordination of live music precincts. These proposals are focused on stabilising the sector now and giving it the tools to adapt to long‑term change.
The ALMBC is inviting members, industry colleagues, organisations and stakeholders to review the submission and suggest updates, clarifications or additional ideas. The aim is to ensure the final submission accurately reflects the breadth of experience, expertise and priorities across Australia’s live music sector.
The submission will be finalised and lodged on 24 May 2026. To be considered, all feedback must be received by 20 May 2026.
We strongly encourage you to read the document and contribute—this is a critical opportunity for the live music industry to speak with a clear, united voice on national cultural policy.
