Minister Calls On Govt To Secure Future Of NSW Festivals Following Bluesfest Axing

NSW Labor is calling on the Government to save Bluesfest which was slugged with "significant costs" due to the last minute cancellation of its 2021 event this month.

With costs to save the annual event understood to be around $10 million, Shadow Minister for Music and the Night Time Economy John Graham has urged the Government to act and reiterated a push to create a Business Interruption Fund for the rest of the festival industry.

“The Treasurer made some encouraging comments on this when the festival was first cancelled but we’ve heard radio silence since,” Graham said.

“Festivals who saw Bluesfest forced to close the gates 24 hours before the event won’t be back unless they’re given greater certainty; this is one way to do it.

“Millions of dollars were invested in the event which provided thousands of jobs for artists, crews, managers, promoters and music workers."

The renewed call to create a Business Interruption Fund - which would assists businesses in last minute emergencies like a last minute cancellation - comes as music festivals prepare for the summer season. 

“NSW needs to know where this is up to and when live music can safely plan for the future," Graham said.

The news comes just a day after Bluesfest was revealed as a nominee for Music Festival Of The Decade at the Pollstar Awards, making it the only Australian festival, event or venue to ever be nominated for the award. 

“After all we have been through since the start of the pandemic, with two cancellations, including one which occurred the day before we were all set and ready to open our gates, it is a pleasure to be offered something positive for Bluesfest,” Bluesfest Director Peter Noble OAM said.

“It’s something for our hard-working team to put their heads up and be proud of after all we have been through recently."

The Pollstar Awards winners will be announced during Pollstar Live!, set to take place between June 15-17.