COVID-19 is continuing to pose major risks and impacts on the WA music sector, and WAM is committed to consulting and supporting the sector, and working to have our voices heard.

ADVOCACY
Ensuring the voice and needs of the music sector are heard

WAM work alongside fellow music industry and live event industry organisations to lobby key decision makers and local, state and federal government bodies. Calls for action are grounded in ongoing consultation with the sector, and include issues including, but not limited to, greater financial assistance, increased transparency around the implementation of grants, restrictions and mandatory vaccinations, and further insight into future health measures.

Since the Omicron outbreak saw the first round of venues closures and show cancellation in December 2021, WAM have focussed lobbying efforts on the need for targeted financial support to cater for the unique ecosystem of sole-traders, micro-businesses and small businesses that create the music sector. As additional support packages for the events and entertainment sectors are being released, we’re continuing to lobby for;

  • Expanded grant eligibility, included decreased minimum turnover requirements and removal of the GST-registered requirement to target artists.
  • Expedited availability of grant guidelines, application assessment and administration of funds for timely support
  • Replacement of current WA COVID-19 Hotline hold audio with music from WA based artists to support royalty payments and broad community awareness.
  • Government backed National Insurance Scheme to address longer-term audience hesitancy and sector recovery

Industry consultation plays a vital role in effectively advocating for your needs. In addition to regular communications and one-on-one consultation with artists, live music venues, promoters and production businesses, WAM liaise with fellow WA based industry bodies. WAM are currently invigorating the WA Music Council with an initial focus on industry-wide COVID-19 support and recovery. We regularly invite the community to contribute via our e-news, with a survey for wider industry consultation currently underway.

WAM are a member of the OpenMIC National Live Music and Events Industry Taskforce alongside representatives from across the industry, including APRA AMCOS, Live Music Australia, fellow AMIN bodies, Sounds Australia, Support Act plus promoters, managers and booking agents. The taskforce lobbies for National support and consistency across state-based support, including ongoing calls for a National insurance Scheme. OpenMIC are currently develop policy recommendations to put to the political parties ahead of the federal election.

RESOURCES
Providing accessible, current information and resources for support

Our COVID-19 Resource Hub features key information for artists, industry professionals and businesses regarding current restrictions, financial support packages, and information sessions.

COVID-19 SAFETY
Keeping the community safe

WAM are committed to ensuring our activities and programs remain safe for everyone involved. In order to protect those within the organisation and the broader community, WAM closely monitor COVID-19 updates and follow State Government public health measures, advice and restrictions.

WAM have implemented a series of COVID-19 safety protocols within the office and across our programs based on advice from the Department of Health, Department of Education, and fellow industry bodies. We’re proud to be a fully vaccinated and boosted organisation.

WAM support the music industry #VAXTHENATION campaign, and Roll Up for WA campaign to support the safe return of live music events.

WANT TO STAYING INFORMED?

In addition to checking our website, you can receive regular updates on our COVID-19 response work by signing up to our e-news, or becoming a free WAM Member.

If you have any questions regarding WAM’s COVID-19 response, or would like to contribute to consultation, you can contact us at hello@wam.org.au.