Free public transport could revive Sydney's live music scene, inquiry hears

Industry leaders have urged the New South Wales government to implement free public transport for concert-goers, arguing such a move is vital to salvaging Sydney’s struggling live music sector. Testifying before a parliamentary inquiry into the state of the industry, stakeholders highlighted that the financial burden of commuting from the city’s sprawling outskirts is effectively locking out a generation of younger fans.

The inquiry, which aims to address the decline of grassroots venues across Greater Sydney, heard that the logistical hurdles of the current transport network have created a significant barrier to entry. As cost-of-living pressures mount, the expense of late-night travel often outweighs the ticket price, leaving suburban audiences disconnected from the CBD’s cultural hubs.

“The survival of our night-time economy hinges not just on the talent on stage, but on the seamless mobility of the citizens meant to fill the room.”

While the proposal faces scrutiny regarding its fiscal viability, proponents argue that the long-term economic benefits of a revived night-time economy would far outweigh the initial costs of subsidised travel. The committee is expected to weigh these recommendations as part of a broader strategy to restore Sydney’s reputation as a premier destination for live entertainment.