Australia’s passion for live music remains strong despite issues gig-goers have with venues and infrastructure, according to the Winarch Group’s 2024 Australian Live Music Census.
While the survey, conducted for Winarch Group by Pure Profile, highlights challenges in infrastructure and accessibility for people attending gigs it also reveals that Australians are hungrier than ever for live music experiences.
“Understanding the priorities, perceptions and preferences of Australians when it comes to live music is key to ensuring we have a thriving local industry,” Winarch Group Founder, Paul Lambess said.
“The Winarch Group Australian Live Music Census paints a picture of an Australia that knows what it wants – more purpose-built live music venues, fewer issues with accessibility and transport, and the opportunity to create more lifetime memories.”
One of the report’s most interesting findings is that only 43% of respondents agreed there were sufficient live music venues in their local area. This sentiment was particularly pronounced outside major cities, where 60% or more in regional areas like Victoria and New South Wales cited venue proximity as a barrier. Despite these obstacles, enthusiasm for live music is undeterred, with 64% indicating they are likely to attend a show in the next six months.
Cost, according to the report, also remains a major factor in shaping attendance habits, with 74% of respondents stating that cheaper tickets would encourage more frequent attendance. Transport options and accessibility also play a significant role, especially among younger audiences and long-standing grievances like toilet queues and booking fees were also a barrier to attending a gig.
It’s not all doom and gloom though. Despite frustrations, the emotional pull of live music remains powerful, with 77% of respondents agreeing that concerts create memories that last a lifetime.
The census also underscores the diverse ways Australians engage with live music with 60% of respondents attending indoor ticketed concerts, 56% enjoying free events, and 39% opting for outdoor shows.
Pop music dominates as the most popular genre, followed by rock, musical theatre, and country. However, there’s room for growth in supporting local artists; 22% of Australians never attend gigs by Australian acts, and only 24% see local performances more than three times a year.
The report will be presented and discussed with industry stakeholders and members of the local music community at a special event in Newcastle tonight.
