'We Need Action': The Push Urges Government to Back All-Ages Live Music

The Push has urged the Albanese Government to move quickly on reforms designed to keep young Australians engaged in the nation’s live music culture, following the official response to the Parliamentary Am I Ever Gonna See You Live Again? inquiry.

With social media restrictions for under-16s now being explored at a national level, the national youth music organisation says offline access to music and community will only become more critical.

Chief Executive Officer Kate Duncan says young people are consistently hitting roadblocks, with cost of tickets, getting to shows, and a lack of all-ages opportunities in licensed venues among them.

“Live music is one of the most powerful ways young people build connection, confidence and belonging,” Ms Duncan said.

According to Duncan, the inquiry has already done the heavy lifting. “The Inquiry has given us a clear roadmap to strengthen the sector and remove barriers to access. Now we need action that supports both the industry and the young people who rely on it.”

She notes that changes to digital platforms are likely to reduce the space where young people discover new artists. “As online environments shift, young people will have fewer digital spaces to discover music and engage with their communities. That makes accessible, local, all-ages live music even more important and it’s why the inquiry’s recommendations need urgent implementation.”

Among the priorities The Push wants advanced are:

• Scaled-up national investment in music training programs for young people
• Consideration of a rebate or voucher initiative to boost youth attendance • Expansion of Revive Live to directly support all-ages programming across the country.

New data backs the call. The recent Young Australian Music Audiences study from YouGov, commissioned by The Push, reveals that live music significantly contributes to young people’s sense of support and connection, and 80% of respondents say governments should be helping them attend or organise gigs.

“Young Australians want more all-ages gigs, more affordable shows and stronger pathways into music education and careers,” Ms Duncan said.

“Strengthening the live music sector strengthens young people’s futures. It’s incredibly important that the recommendations from this inquiry are acted upon. We look forward to working with the Australian Government on investing in opportunities for young people and for the future of Australian music.”