The Andrews Labor Government's decision to ban live streaming of music and other performances from venues is a further blow to Victoria's arts and creative industries.
Live streaming has allowed many performers to keep in touch with their audiences over the last 18 months during the COVID-19 pandemic and has provided some relief to the mental health pressures facing Victorians and Victorian youth in particular.
It makes no sense that live streaming in venues is banned when religious ceremonies can be broadcast with a maximum of five people, socially distanced and in a COVID-safe setting.
Daniel Andrews must release in full the decision-making chain, the technical and health advice and the related briefs behind this erratic decision to ban the live streaming of performances.
The Andrews Labor Government has decimated the arts sector and has no plan for Victoria's creative industries except to kick them when they're already down.
As stated by Shadow Minister for the Arts and Creative Industries, David Davis:
"This absurd decision imposed by the Andrews Labor Government make no sense and demonstrates just how out of touch Labor is with Victorians.
"Not even a sole piano man like Billy Joel could operate under these restrictions even if all he had with him was a video recorder and a sound technician.
"The arts sector has already paid a huge price, it's been smashed by Labor's harsh lockdowns, and now, absurdly, not even remote live streaming is permitted with COVID-safe measures.
"Daniel Andrews needs to admit he's wrong and release the health advice behind this decision immediately."
