Victorian Labor Pledges Local Music Mandate for State Advertising Ahead of November Election

The Victorian Labor Party has committed to requiring all music in state government advertising to be sourced from local Victorian creatives if it wins the upcoming November state election. The mandate, first reported by AdNews, aims to promote local artists and reduce taxpayer spending on licensing fees for non-Victorian music, according to Vicki Ward, Victoria's Minister for Creative Industries. The announcement is part of a broader push to support the local music industry, including additional funding for all-ages events, the creation of new 'Live Music Precincts,' a streamlined regulatory process via a new Live Music Desk, and reforms to EPA noise regulations to ensure fairer complaint handling. Music Victoria, the industry body, has praised the measures, noting they align with its Vote Victorian Music campaign recommendations. The organization describes Victoria's music sector as a $3.55 billion industry and calls on all political parties to back the pledges. Music Victoria also advocates for four key pillars: a 1% ticket levy on stadium shows to fund a Victorian Music Trust, expanded investment through a proposed Live Gigs Fund, career and audience development, and protection of music venues. The state election is scheduled for 28 November.