Study shows music industry worth $1 billion to Western Australia economy

The contemporary music industry is contributing nearly $1 billion into Western Australian's economy, according to a study by researchers at Edith Cowan University (ECU).

The study, conducted for industry group West Australian Music (WAM), revealed that the music industry the sector contributed $985 million in 2014, employed almost 3,000 people as WA, accounted for wages of $149 million and hosted more than 350 live music events each week.

The ECU research also found contemporary music made up 49% of ticket sales in Western Australia, compared with festivals at 13%, musical theatre at 9% and classical music and opera at 5%.

The billion dollar figure did not take into account any cash sales, but it was double what industry group WAM Chief Executive Mike Harris had anticipated.

Harris explained that considering the figures only represent those listing this industry as their primary profession, the total impact would in fact be much higher.

Harris explained “to see it to be touching a billion without getting that cash economy was partly surprising but very pleasing.”

Harris added that music is a sector in the arts industry that can’t be ignored, calling for more government support.

He added “for a long time WAM has been concerned that there's a lack of funding and investment in music in WA and nationally.

"We've been pretty keen to get a deeper understanding of the breadth and depth and importance of West Australian music and we've set out to do that in terms of economic impact, social impact and cultural impact."

Until now the sector has largely relied on anecdotal evidence when fighting for funding.

WAM President Al Taylor said the new research allowed the group to mount a stronger argument for private sponsorship and government funding, to put music on a more even playing field with the likes of theatre and ballet.

Taylor explained “we could do so much more with more funding and more support and I think once we start to elevate the understanding of the industry and its value that will be the flow on effect.”

Harris said the WA music scene continued to punch above its weight in both national and international markets with bands such as Tame Impala and artists such as Troye Sivan achieving significant global success.

He concluded “the WA contemporary scene is undoubtedly successful, but talent also runs deep.”

Click here to view the report on the WAM website.

Main image: Tame Impala

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