L-R: John Wardle, Morris Iemma, Richard Ruhle, Robert Susz and David Weir

On behalf of its music creator members, APRA|AMCOS applauds the Iemma Government's introduction of long overdue reforms to the NSW liquor laws. The changes to the regulation of entertainment and live music in this state, effective 1 July 2008, will expand performance opportunities for music creators and support the live music industry in the years to come.

We support the order of occupancy provisions introduced under the new conference model for dealing with noise complaints. This will deliver more certainty for venues and residents.

Smaller venues will welcome the new On-Premises Entertainment Venue liquor licence that slashes application fees from $60,000 for a Sydney nightclub licence under the old regime, to $500. The new licence brings liquor licenses for Theatres, Cinemas, and music venues together in one simple and inexpensive category.

Young up-and-coming music creators will welcome the changes that allow under-18's to perform as musicians in licensed areas without committing an offence (provided their parent or guardian is with them). This will enable younger musicians to work alongside established professionals, gain valuable performance experience and build a fan-base, while earning an income from their music. It will raise the standard of musicianship and professionalism in the industry.

The changes to the objectives of the legislation acknowledge the vital relationship between the live music and entertainment industry and the Liquor Act. Planners must now take into account the interests of the live music industry when considering licence applications or variations to conditions.

The new $500 general bar licence and the long overdue reforms to the NSW restaurant licence will create many opportunities for musicians from all genres to perform within the restaurant and hospitality environment. Genres that are generally overlooked, such as multi-cultural live music, jazz, classical guitar and piano repertoire, singer songwriters, may find their niche within this new environment.

We congratulate Gaming and Racing Minister Graham West, and the Office of Liquor, Gaming, and Racing, for their extensive consultation with the live music industry in preparing these exciting reforms.

The changes to the Liquor Act follow the reforms to the NSW Planning system that were passed by the NSW Planning Minister, Frank Sartor, last week. Those changes removed the Place of Public Entertainment (PoPE) process from the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. Taken together, the changes deliver a brand new regulatory environment for live music that has slashed fees and red tape, and is now approaching an example of best practice nationally.