Green Music Australia: Sustainability Could Save NSW Venues $1.5M

A new report from Green Music Australia suggests that New South Wales live music venues could collectively slash more than 70,000 tonnes of emissions and save upwards of $1.53 million annually by embracing practical sustainability measures.

The findings were unveiled at the Regional and Remote Music Summit on Bundjalung Country in Byron Bay.

The NSW Venue Sustainability Health Check Report, based on assessments of nine venues across the state, reveals that small shifts could lead to big wins:

• • Switching energy providers, upgrading appliances, and installing solar could deliver average savings of $10,388 per year.
  • Zero-emissions electricity is within reach via accredited GreenPower, with venues seeing average net annual savings of $3,736—after an upfront investment ranging from $1,988 to $18,767.
  • Payback periods average between one and four years.
  • Many venues still lack the resources to comply with future waste and emissions regulations.
  • Progress is already underway: most have transitioned to LED lighting, boosted insulation, and joined container deposit schemes.
  • But challenges persist, particularly around phasing out single-use items and navigating new food and organics bin requirements.

“Live venues are the beating heart of Australia’s music community, but they’re under pressure from rising energy costs, tightening regulations, and shifting audience expectations,” said Green Music Australia CEO Berish Bilander. “This report shows that climate action is not only necessary, it can help reduce overheads. We need funding for energy upgrades, stronger policy support, and a cultural shift that embeds sustainability into the operations of our local music hubs.”

The report draws from Green Music Australia’s Green Venue Certification pilot, which included Metro Theatre, ICC Sydney, Club 77, and La La La’s. Following its success, the program is now open to all NSW venues. Certified venues will be listed in a public directory.

ICC Sydney’s Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer Beverley Parker welcomed the milestone: “We are honoured that ICC Sydney is among the first entertainment venues to be certified as a Green Venue. As a major venue, we recognise the opportunity and responsibility to lead by example in environmental sustainability and social impact.

“This milestone not only reflects the strength of our current initiatives but also inspires our team to continue raising the bar. We’re excited to collaborate even more deeply with our clients and entertainment promoters to broaden the impact of their programs, particularly by strengthening connections with First Nations People, culture, and businesses, and by reducing waste and the carbon footprint of events. This recognition is a catalyst to continue to drive meaningful change through the events we deliver.”

The full report and application details are available at greenmusic.org.au/healthcheck and greenmusic.org.au/venues.