NSW Live Music Revival

The NSW live music revival is gaining momentum, with the number of venues hosting performances quadrupling since 2023 following major vibrancy reforms.

A total of 564 venues across the state are now participating in live music incentive programs, compared with just 133 venues before the reforms began. Of those, 158 venues are in regional NSW, supporting stronger night-time economies outside metropolitan centres.

The incentives include an 80 per cent reduction in liquor licence fees for venues hosting live music and extended trading hours on performance nights. Venues located in Special Entertainment Precincts can also access additional trading flexibility.

Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said the increase showed the reforms were delivering results.

“To see the number of venues quadruple is a great sign our vibrancy reforms are working,” he said.

The changes also removed remaining lockout restrictions, simplified planning approvals for performances in some settings and introduced new funding programs to upgrade venue facilities.

Industry leaders say the reforms are encouraging venues to expand programming and support artists, crews and local audiences across NSW.

Regional communities, including those across the Northern Rivers, are expected to benefit as more venues return live music to their stages.

From the Northern Rivers Times News Desk