NSW music festivals threaten to relocate if the state government doesn’t get its shit together
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22.10.2019

NSW music festivals threaten to relocate if the state government doesn’t get its shit together

Falls Festival
Photo: Dave Kan

Tensions are high.

Festival operators in New South Wales have suggested they might find other states to set up shop in if the state government continues to push forward with its current treatment of music events.

NSW politicians are looking reinstate the controversial music festival regulations that were previously scrapped by the State Legislative Council in September. As the ABC reports, roughly 11 of the 90 music events that operate in NSW would be deemed ‘high risk’ and subject to additional measures such as hiring extra emergency medical workers and security. Representatives from Laneway Festival, Falls Festival and Splendour in the Grass have indicated this could be the final straw.

“There are other states outside NSW that are willing to better support our business. We may be left with no choice but to consider our options,” Laneway co-director Danny Rogers told the Sydney Morning Herald.

In a post on Facebook, Splendour said a possible mass exodus from NSW is on the cards.

“[The Berejiklian Government] refuse to consult with the festivals and have introduced new legislation which will change what the festival scene in NSW looks like from 2021. This could mean a max [sic] exodus of some of your favourite music festivals, including this one.”

 

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