2024-02-15
“The addition of Groovin the Moo to the growing list of festival cancellations is another major blow to the live music industry in Australia. The industry has been struggling to get back on its feet since it was decimated by the covid pandemic.
“Over the past 2 years a number of Australian festivals have collapsed or been cancelled due to skyrocketing inflation and difficulties with ticket sales in an uncertain economic environment.
“It’s clear that there is an urgent need for government support to keep the industry going through these uncertain economic times.
“I have written to Arts Minister Tony Burke asking him to fund another round of live music grants through the May Budget and also work with the festivals industry to provide the support that festivals need to stay viable at this difficult time.
“As the Chair of the senate inquiry into the National Cultural Policy I will be calling representatives from Australian festivals to the next hearing to shine a light on what is needed to support the industry.”