Tasmanian Government proposes tax rebates for pubs to hold live music events

The Tasmanian Government has put forward a proposal that would provide a financial incentive to pubs and clubs to host live music, in the hope of boosting the hospitality sector and encouraging people to visit local venues.

Acting Premier Bridget Archer is drafting a proposal to the Australian Government for a Tasmanian Live Music Excise Rebate Pilot, which gives participating venues a rebate worth 50 per cent of verified expenditure on music.

The policy is intended to boost hospitality, invigorate pubs and clubs and support musicians.

“This initiative would support the hospitality industry and back Tasmania’s live music scene,” Ms Archer said.

“Tasmanians love live music and they love their local pub — this proposal is about supporting both.

“We want to see local venues rewarded for investing in musicians, creating local jobs and bringing communities together.”

Under the proposal, pubs, hotels and clubs can claim a rebate equal to 50 per cent of what they spend on live music, including for performers and associated costs.

Ms Archer said the policy encouraged venues by giving them a financial incentive to host live music, making the practice more economically viable.

“This incentive means the more a venue invests in live music, the more support it will receive,” she said.

“More live music means more people through the door, more customers in town, more activity in our regions and more opportunities for local businesses.

“It means jobs for musicians, work for sound technicians and stronger local economies.”

Tasmania’s Government said the state was the ideal place to trial the idea.

“This is an innovative idea that brings together the arts, hospitality and tourism sectors,” Ms Archer said.

“It’s about supporting local jobs, strengthening our economy and making sure live music continues to thrive across Tasmania.”

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