Sydney CBD's Live Music Venues Have Lost Almost Half Their Revenue Since the Lockouts

Remember that time when NSW Premier Mike Baird dismissed concerns over the effects of the lockout laws as "hysteria"? Well, it turns out all those 'crackpot' business owners may have been onto something after all. Figures released today by APRA AMCOS via the Live Music Office reveal a staggering 40 percent drop in live performance revenue at venues located within the Sydney CBD lockout zone. But it's probably just a coincidence, right?

The damning statistics also show a 19 percent drop in attendance figures at nightclubs and dance venues since the lockout laws came into effect in 2014. Live Music Office policy director John Wardle addressed the connection between the controversial legislation and the drop-off in revenue.

"There are important measures that need to be put into place to reduce the impacts to the live music sector that are now being experienced in Sydney, whilst still ensuring public safety is paramount."

The Live Music Office offered a number of recommendations to try and combat the dwindling numbers, including an exemption from both the 1.30am lockout for live music venues and the liquor freeze for venues presenting live entertainment, including theatres, galleries and live music venues. It also called for the establishment of a live music regulation roundtable between various government agencies and members of the live music sector.

Seems like wishful thinking... unless of course you've got the backing of a multi-millionaire casino owner, in which case you may find the government a tad more willing to compromise.

Image: John Price