Research from The Australia Institute has found the introduction of a government-funded cultural pass could revitalise Australia's struggling live music sector.
The proposal, discussed in a recent inquiry into the challenges facing the Australian live music industry, aims to subsidise concert ticket costs for young people, encouraging greater participation in cultural events.
Key Findings:
- 80% of young Australians would attend more live music events if a $200 government-funded voucher were available.
- European countries (including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland) have successfully implemented similar initiatives, offering youth vouchers for cultural events.
- Evidence from France shows that 66% of pass holders discovered new cultural venues, which more than 55% revisited after their pass expired.
- The Australian live music industry is still recovering from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with many venues and festivals facing ongoing financial challenges.
- Investing in cultural passes could provide a much-needed boost to the sector, supporting Australian artists and increasing access to live music for young Australians.
"The evidence from Europe shows that cultural passes are an effective way of getting young people to engage with the arts," said Morgan Harrington, Research Manager at The Australia Institute.
"For a small investment, the Commonwealth could give live music a huge boost.
"Live music has not recovered from the blows that started with the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year was horrible for festivals, venues, and punters. If we want to turn things around, we need to invest in Australian artists and the communities that support them."
