The local live music scene is set to be energised with the launch of a new Live and Local program on the Northern Beaches.

Council is partnering with the Live Music Office and the Australasian Performing Right Association and Australasian Mechanical Copyright Owners Society (APRA AMCOS) to help local musicians and venues to program more live music.

As part of the 12-month Live and Local program, Council will host a live music forum to discuss ways to boost the local industry and also organise live music events later in the year.

Northern Beaches Council Mayor Sue Heins said it was vital support for an industry that has been struggling.

“The Northern Beaches is home to so many talented local musicians and some fabulous live music venues,” Mayor Heins said.

“We know that the industry is still recovering from venue closures and other impacts of the pandemic. The local music scene needs a revival, and we are committed to playing our part.

“We are working on a strategy to support the night-time economy in Manly and the wider Northern Beaches, while also partnering with the music industry to support live music programming.

“I encourage all local musicians, DJs, venues and live music businesses to register their interest for the Live and Local program.”

In its 2023 Year in Review, APRA AMCOS reported the loss of 1,300 live music venues and stages across Australia. They found that the venue-based live music scene had been ‘decimated’ over recent years. In NSW, there was a 32% loss in live music venues since the 2018 financial year.  

APRA AMCOS and the Live Music Office offer matched-funded partnership opportunities for local councils to help them build the capacity of the local live music industry.

Through the Live and Local program, Council will connect a network of local musicians, venues and industry and facilitate professional development opportunities for local musicians.

The program is open to musicians, bands, DJs, venues, and other music businesses.

Details of the Live Music Forum and live music performances will be announced at a later date.  

Live and Local is presented by Northern Beaches Council in partnership with the Live Music Office and APRA AMCOS.

To find out more about the program and how you can join visit visit our website.