Key music industry players are calling on NSW residents to #VoteMusic for this month’s upcoming state election.
The music industry alliance, which is made up of Live Performance Australia, Australian Festival Association, APRA AMCOS, Live Music Office, Music NSW, PPCA and ARIA, has issued a statement urging "everyone whether they’re 18 or 85 to ask their local candidate whether they support live music when deciding who to vote for".
The statement comes after a turbulent few months for the NSW music industry, with the introduction of a new licensing scheme for “high risk” festivals, the Don’t Kill Live Music rally and festival operators confirming they will be taking legal action against the NSW Government following the introduction of the new policy.
"Right now, live music in NSW is under threat through poorly-designed and heavy-handed new regulations for music festivals,” reads the statement.
"The music industry was willing to work constructively with government before it introduced these regulations. That failed so we're now making sure our voices will be heard during the election campaign.
"More than 3.2 million people of all ages and backgrounds attended a live music event in New South Wales last year. The live music industry is worth $1b nationally and a third of that revenue is generated in NSW.
"We're encouraging everyone, whether they’re 18 or 85, to ask their local candidate whether they support live music when deciding who to vote for on March 23.
"This is an issue for candidates in both country and city electorates. Live music events support local artists, local business and local economies.
“Our simple message is this: If you care about live music in NSW, #VOTEMUSIC on March 23 (and make sure you preference every box).
For all the info on the 2019 NSW State election, head here.
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