Music SA and the Live Music Office release the findings of the 2017 Adelaide Live Music Census, which offers a snapshot of live music activity in South Australia. SA’s music scene contributed $375 million to the economy in 2015/16, with the industry thriving under the removal of regulatory red tape and increased State Government support.
The inaugural EconSearch report benchmarks the State’s music industry to measure future growth. The report analyses the full music supply chain in South Australia, including song-writing, retail, manufacturing, recording studios, dedicated music media, education, as well as live music gigs and festivals.
The release of the report coincides with the release of the Music SA Live Music Census, which shows a 34% increase in the number of venues hosting live music, and a 15% increase in the number of gigs being held over the past two years.
The music industry now employs 6,300 South Australians (includes part-time and contract jobs). Of the musicians surveyed, 96% of their income was earned in South Australia.
The State Government has driven a number of regulatory reforms to support the live music industry, including venues with liquor licenses no longer requiring consent for provision of entertainment between 11am and midnight.
South Australia has also led the nation in declaring low impact live entertainment to be classified exempt development under planning regulations, making it easier for live music to take place in a wider range of venues, including small bars and unconventional spaces.
As part of the Government’s commitment to removing barriers for the live music industry, roundtables have been held along with consultation across local government and industry.
Background
The EconSearch report was commissioned by the Music Development Office and the City of Adelaide and is available at http://mdo.sa.gov.au/research/
The Music SA Live Music Census is available at Adelaide Live Music Census 2017
