The NSW Parliament has passed the Music Bill 2026, placing support for the state’s contemporary music industry on a legislative footing and introducing new measures covering live music venues, event regulation, noise assessment and government decision-making.

The legislation establishes the Sound NSW Advisory Board and sets principles for government agencies and local councils making decisions affecting the contemporary music industry. It also introduces a three-tier Music Venue Recognition Scheme, with venues to be recognised as dedicated, significant or live music venues.

The scheme is intended to tailor government support to different types of venues, including access to extended trading hours and government grants, while encouraging venues to regularly program new and original live music. The government expects the scheme to launch later this year.

The legislation also requires certain disputes involving dedicated and significant live music venues to go to mediation before court proceedings can begin. A registrar of disputes will oversee the process, while the NSW Small Business Commission will provide free mediation support, according to the government.

Sydney band The Dress at the Vic on the Park, Marrickville. Photo @theundergroundstage

APRA AMCOS has welcomed the legislation, describing it as a...