‘It Is Dying’: The Industry Behind Your Favourite Events Is At Serious Risk

Australia’s live entertainment scene has been hit hard by the current COVID pandemic, and the “dizzying array” of businesses and workers behind the scenes that help bring events to life are feeling the effects hard.

Described as “the engine room of an industry that generates $36 Billion in revenue across 18,000 businesses and employs 185,000 people directly”, the Live Event Supply Industry takes the spotlight today as part of Red Alert! Global Day Of Action.

The Live Event Supply Industry, which supplies music promoters, arts organisations, sports organisations, live television productions and more, includes lighting, audio, video and automation technicians, stagehands, riggers, camera operators, makeup artists, chefs and caterers, merchandise managers, drivers, accommodation co-ordinators and so many more.

The day is intended to celebrate those who bring our favourite events to life and rally up support for much-needed funding and will see hundreds of venues and other sites across the country lit red, with Roadcase Rally installations at Sydney’s The Domain and Brisbane’s RNA while similar events take place across the globe.

“The current issue is that funding is being directed to the top of the industry in the hopes it will trickle down,” reads a statement from We Make Events. 

“Whilst this is great for those businesses that create and manage live events, there is no trickle-down effect happening. Generally, funds are being used to support the continued existence of those businesses at the top of the food chain. The Live Event Supply Industry needs its own tailored support package to allow its existence.

“Without help, this industry will die and the tens of thousands of live events Australians attend every day will be put into doubt. The Live Event Supply Industry is quite literally the beating heart of these events and it is dying.”

Punters can show their support by following and sharing We Make Events on Instagram and Facebook, spreading the word about the day of action and calling their local member.

Head to the We Make Events Facebook for more details.