What’s happening?
Rockhampton’s small live music venues are struggling to stay open amid rising costs and changing audience habits.
A study by the University of South Australia highlights the growing stress and burnout among venue operators, many of whom are working unpaid to keep the local music culture alive.
Why It Matters: The Future of Rockhampton’s Music Scene
Live music venues are the backbone of Rockhampton’s entertainment and cultural identity, providing a platform for local musicians, touring acts, and grassroots music communities. Without these spaces, the region risks losing a vital creative outlet that fosters talent, strengthens community connections, and supports the local economy.
Dr Rosie Roberts from UniSA’s Creative People, Products and Places Research Centre, alongside Dr Sam Whiting of RMIT University, has studied the long-term challenges facing regional live music venues. Their research found that operators often work unpaid while struggling with high costs, limited audience access, and industry burnout.
“Regional live music venues perform a critical function for their communities because they provide spaces of sociality, belonging, education, and skill development,” Dr Roberts explains.
For Rockhampton, this means more than just live gigs—these venues help sustain local tourism, hospitality, and nightlife industries, all of which contribute to the regional economy. Without urgent support and policy changes, Rockhampton could see fewer music events, fewer opportunities for local artists, and economic setbacks for venue operators and supporting businesses.
Local Impact: A Hit to Rockhampton’s Cultural Scene
- Well-known venues, including The Goat and other local spots, play a vital role in keeping Rockhampton’s music scene alive.
- Declining attendance and lower spending at gigs are making it difficult for venue owners to pay artists fairly.
- With burnout rising among venue operators, many are questioning whether they can afford to continue.
By the Numbers: The Harsh Reality
- Over 1,300 live music venues have shut down in the past four years.
- Rising rent, public liability insurance, and energy prices are putting financial strain on venues.
- Cost-of-living pressures have led to reduced audience spending, impacting ticket and bar sales.
Zoom In: The Struggles of Running a Regional Venue
According to Dr Roberts’ research, many venue operators are either unpaid or the last to receive payment. She explains that many interviewees felt burnt out and exhausted, often prioritising fair pay for musicians and leaving themselves unpaid or paid last—if at all.
Zoom Out: Policy Change is Needed
Although major city venues often dominate music policy discussions, regional venue operators argue that they’re frequently overlooked. As a result, Dr Roberts recommends dedicated funding schemes, regional music forums, and town-based live music strategies to better support smaller venues.
What To Look For Next?
Industry advocates are urging local and state governments to introduce support measures for regional music venues. Without change, Rockhampton’s music scene could suffer long-term losses.
