‘It Gives Us a United Voice’: New Peak Body for NSW Live Music Scene Launches

A new peak body designed to protect and promote New South Wales’ live music scene has launched this week.

The not-for-profit Live Music Venues Alliance (LMVA) will look to represent and fight for the state’s music and venues that have struggled with several issues over the years, including red tape, lockout laws and COVID.

“Live music venues are the beating heart of our cultural sector,” Mark Gerber, Chair of LMVA and founder/general Manager of The Oxford Art Factory said in a statement on Monday (September 29th).

“Yet rising costs, regulatory pressures and a broader nightlife decline are leaving too many venues to fight for survival on their own.

“The LMVA is essential because it gives us a united voice, making sure that venues are heard, supported and strengthened – and helping to keep the music alive.”

The LMVA will look to build on grassroots campaign, Save Our Stages NSW, which launched during the COVID pandemic and united 76 venues across NSW. The campaign helped secure a $24 million live music COVID support package, contributed to the Create NSW Performing Arts Support Package, and led a petition with over 27,000 signatures.

The LMVA has already locked in founding members like Century Venues, The Oxford Art Factory, Crowbar and La La La’s, with more venues joining soon.

An immediate focus for the new group is the Art of Tax Reform, raising awareness of the urgent need for targeted tax change to sustain and grow Australia’s live music ecosystem.

“Current tax settings reward industries with negative social outcomes, while venues that deliver proven cultural, social, and economic value are overlooked,” Tyla Dombroski, President of LMVA and Director/CEO of CrowBar, added.

“It’s time for policy to reflect the true value of live music.”

For more details, including how to connect with the LMVA, check out their official website.