Special Entertainment Precincts Considered For Hobart & Launceston

Tasmania could soon be home to more Special Entertainment Precincts, signing up for a feasibility study to explore options for reducing red tape and facilitating a thriving live music environment. The study will also share key insights with governments on implementing reform to support the local live music scene.

According to a press release, the Tasmanian government and the federal government have joined forces to fund a new study, each investing $75,000.

The study is based on recommendations from the House of Representatives’ Standing Committee on Communications and the Arts' recent report, fittingly titled Am I Ever Gonna See You Live Again?

Earlier this year, The Music noted some of the 20 recommendations listed in the report, including the federal government investigating the potential benefits of a tax offset for the live music industry; amending consumer law to ensure transparency over fees in ticket sales; exploring the viability of a rebate or voucher scheme to incentivise younger audiences to attend live music; and looking into the creation of “special entertainment precincts” within state, territory, and local governments.

The full Am I Ever Gonna See You Live Again? report can be viewed here.

Madeline Ogilvie, the Tasmanian Minister for the Arts and Heritage, noted that the state is packed with potential, and the study should help the state “unlock existing infrastructure” and create new spaces.

“To fully realise this potential, we need to work to remove barriers to success and enable more support for our local artists,” Ogilvie said.

“This study will help us unlock existing infrastructure to create vibrant spaces where audiences can experience live music while building sustainable career pathways for our artists. 

“By better coordinating our resources, we can establish Tasmania as a national leader in live music precinct development and ensure both performers and music lovers benefit from a thriving live music scene.”

Federal Minister for the Arts Tony Burke added that the study would explore where the local industry in Tasmania currently stands and outline where change is needed.

“I welcome Tasmania’s State of Music report and am proud to support this study to better understand how we can protect and grow live music in Tasmania,” Burke said.

“Music ecosystems across the country are unique; there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to live performances.

“This feasibility report will inform us on the effective changes we can make to keep the music playing in Hobart and Launceston.”