In an effort to enhance the music industry in the Southern Downs and across Australia, the Granite Belt Music Council (GBMC) submitted an inquiry into live music in Australia to the Australian House of Representatives, which was published on 17 May.
The inquiry outlined three main issues with potential solutions:
Insurance for Venues: The GBMC suggested enacting legislation to reduce premiums for council parks and other spaces when no claims have been made.
Alcohol, Drugs, and Music: To address the ongoing links between substance abuse and the music scene, the GBMC recommended establishing music councils.
Digital Platforms: No specific solution was provided for issues related to digital platforms.
The GBMC’s submission also included a paper discussing live music policy and proposed a new cultural community wellbeing precinct law reform model. It called for a separate music model tailored for the festival industry, community wellbeing, and emerging artists.
“True music models and partnerships appear the way forward between local government and local musicians for the ultimate benefit of creativity and our national creative and cultural identity,“ stated the GBMC in its inquiry.
It emphasised the importance of music ownership remaining with local musicians to benefit the entire community through partnerships with local governments.
The GBMC expressed confidence in this approach, believing it essential to embrace the concept nationally to enhance Australia’s musical cultural identity and well-being.
The council hopes that its proposed reforms will lead to governmental changes that will, in turn, benefit communities and the broader music industry.
“Our free events bring music to the people, especially those who need community engagement and cultural expression but cannot afford ticketed events. This includes ex-veterans, NDIS clients, youth, the elderly, homeless, unemployed, farmers, musicians, artists, seasonal workers, and travellers,“ the GBMC said.
In a Facebook post, the GBMC described the submission as a gift to the Australian live music industry, aiming to provide direction for a new model. It highlighted the need for respectful law reform concerning noise complaints and an inclusive experience of live music for all.
“Our industry has faced significant challenges, and we hope our submission offers a viable direction for sustainable growth and community engagement,“ the group concluded.
