Australian Live Music Business Council advocates for live music in regional and remote areas

The Australian Live Music Business Council (ALMBC) has highlighted that the country’s regional and remote areas, while being home to some of the most passionate live music fans, often face barriers when it comes to accessing quality live performances.

In a social media post it advised that it is committed to revitalising regional and remote touring circuits, which have faced unprecedented challenges in recent years.

It advises “the pandemic dealt a heavy blow to touring in these areas, with lockdowns and rising costs making it nearly impossible for artists and promoters to sustain regular gigs. However, these circuits are vital - not just for the music industry, but for the communities they serve. Touring brings live experiences to audiences who may not have easy access to major city events, while also supporting local economies and inspiring new generations of musicians, song writers and storytellers.”

The ALMBC has been advocating for better outcomes for regional and remote Australia within federal government funding and has had some great wins - in the most recent Revive Live funding outcomes, a major increase in small regional and remote venues and festivals were funded, following the removal of multi-national owned companies from being eligible to apply. This came through sustained advocacy, led by the ALMBC for some years.

ALMBC’s Executive General Manager, Ant McKenna, has also been traveling across remote Western Australia to forge partnerships and identify opportunities to bring music back to these regions. From building relationships with local councils to addressing logistical hurdles, these efforts aim to ensure that music reaches even the most isolated corners of the country.

Adding that “rebuilding regional touring is about more than entertainment - it’s about connection, culture, and resilience”, the ALMBC is inviting stakeholders to share their stories about memorable gigs in regional Australia and join the body in advocating for a stronger touring network across the nation.

Click here to contact the ALMBC website.

Image: ALMBC’s Ant McKenna. Credit: ALMBC.