Ticketing Transparency
Huge positive changes are on their way in global ticketing.
On 15 May 2024, the US House of Representatives voted to pass the TICKET Act, which aims to ensure transparent pricing for consumers.
The bill, which passed by 388 votes to 24, is the most comprehensive consumer protection ticketing legislation in recent history.
The bill, which is yet to be enacted, guarantees all-in pricing, prohibits deceptive sales tactics, and ensures refunds for cancelled events.
This followed nineteen organisations coming together to form the Fix The Tix Coalition, led by the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) in the US.
Live Nation was among a number of companies including Wasserman, See Tickets, Universal Music Group, Dice and the National Independent Talent Organization (NITO) that came together to support the process, with Live Nation playing a leadership role in the process.
ALMBC board member Brian “smash” Chladil said, “This new legislation, soon to be in the UK too, is a great first step in making ticket prices more transparent. Credit where it’s due, well done for Live Nation for being willing to change. However it doesn’t really change the sheer amount of fees being charged by them and other multi-national companies. Live Nation own Ticketmaster, and here in Australia their ticketing fees are double and sometimes triple of what smaller independent companies charge.”
The ALMBC will continue engagement with the Australian Federal Government and industry representatives to ensure these benefits flow through to Australian ticket buyers.