Industry Update: the Vibrancy Reform Series (Part 4)

Did you know that if your venue supports live music or performance, you may be eligible to receive a range of incentives?

Eligible venues may receive benefits, including:

•     an 80% reduction in annual liquor licence fees;

•     an 80% reduction in the permanent extended trading application fee;

•     two additional hours of liquor trading on nights featuring a minimum of 45 minutes of live music performance, subject to any Development Consent.

To qualify for these incentives, your venue must be a live music venue, a live performance venue, or a participating venue within a Special Entertainment Precinct, and it must meet specific eligibility criteria. Key changes to these eligibility requirements will soon come into effect, including:

Number of performances: From 15 March 2026, metropolitan venues will be required to hold at least 10 live music performances per month. Metropolitan areas include Greater Sydney, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, and Wollongong.

Space to host events: Only metropolitan venues must have a dedicated room or space for live performances. Regional venues may have a space frequently used, but not purpose built.

Eligible times to host events: From 15 March 2026, eligible events will be 45 minutes or more of live music held after 6pm on weeknights, and midday on weekends, subject to any Development Consent.

Record-keeping: From 15 March 2026, venues claiming the Live Music Incentives must keep records of each relevant performance or event held on the licensed premises. These records may be digital or hard-copy, must be retained for at least one year, and may be requested by L&GNSW as evidence of eligibility.

For the full list of eligibility criteria, visit the Incentives for Live Music and Performance venues webpage. Otherwise, if you have a question about offering live music and performances, don’t hesitate to contact our team at licensing@bsvliquorlicence.com.au, or on (02) 8530 0333.