QMusic are calling for greater support from the Queensland State Government for the live music industry.
In a statement release yesterday, the organisation is asking that in the same spirit of Townsville's State Of Origin game this week for the Queensland Government to "to throw the live music industry the same lifeline the NSW Government recently threw with their $24 million live music package that will help venues stay open whilst operating under capacity restrictions".
“A thriving live music economy is critical to the livelihoods and sustainability of contemporary musicians and the Queensland music industry as a whole," said outgoing QMusic CEO Angela Samut.
“We appreciate Minister Enoch and the Queensland Government’s support to-date including the stART quick response grants and two rounds of live music venue grants, however as most live music venues are still operating at just 30 per cent, we urgently need significantly more funding to help them get across the 2021 finish line.
READ MORE: 'Facing Financial Ruin' - Industry Figures Sign Open Letter To Vic Govt Calling For Support
“Through our close work with venues across the state since the initial lockdown, we know all of these small business owners are at an absolute breaking point. They need a lifeline and they need it now."
Referring to the Queensland Government's support of live performances from artists like Busby Marou, Jessica Mauboy, Birds Of Tokyo, The Veronicas, Tim Rogers & Davey Lane and more throughout the State Of Origin event on Wednesday, Samut said that "this is exactly the end game result we are fighting for asking the State Government to invest in live music to benefit all Queenslanders, stimulating millions in economic activity and thousands of jobs".
“The knock-on effects from live music venues are significant and positively impact other sectors including hospitality, accommodation and cultural tourism.”
John Collins, co-owner of Brisbane venues The Triffid and The Fortitude Music Hall and QMusic Committee Member, has echoed the calls.
"We simply cannot sustain business and jobs," he said.
"Promoter and public confidence are volatile regarding purchasing tickets due to snap lockdowns and cancellations, and dependent on what is being portrayed in the media. If we don't get support, there won't be any live music venues left."
Collins spoke with The Music earlier this about the impact that COVID has had on his venues, read the story here.
The calls came the same day that leading music industry figures signed an open letter calling for changes to Victoria's current review restrictions. See the story here.
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