Vic Libs Counter ALP's Election Promises For Live Music Industry

The current Victorian State Government has played down the Opposition's music industry $22million pre-election package, claiming that party has a bad track record.

The Liberals chose to counter the ALP promises today, to coincide with the the Face The Music conference panel about the upcoming election set for November 29.

The Minister For Liquor And Gaming Regulation Edward O'Donohue today said, "The previous Labor government tried to fix the problems of street violence by effectively regulating live music venues out of existence. It was an approach that was unfair and ineffective.

"We are fixing it."

A statement posted today included the following issues as part of their 'Live Music Action Agenda':

• New laws and streamlined licensing control
• Reducing the regulatory burden for smaller venues
• $500,000 Live Music Noise Attenuation Assistance Scheme
• A review of noise regulations

Planning Minister Matthew Guy added that his government was moving ahead with its promise to enshrine the agent of change principle in the state's planning framework, "New residential developments built near existing live music venues will be responsible for mitigating the impact of their noise on neighbours."

[UPDATE] During the Face The Music's Vote For Me! panel O'Donohue also announced that the Coalition would fund Music Victoria's $1 million 'regional music action plan' to stimulate the rural touring circuit. He also pledged a $400,000 operational fund to Music Victoria across a four-year period.