Live Performance Australia (LPA) today welcomed the release of the Deputy State Coroner’s findings from the Inquiry into the deaths of six young people at music festivals.
LPA’s Chief Executive, Evelyn Richardson, said, “We again extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of those who died, and acknowledge the very important contribution they have made to this inquiry.”
“The Deputy Coroner has, after six weeks of hearings, made a series of important evidence-based recommendations to improve safety and reduce drug-related harm at music festivals.
“We urge the NSW Government to give proper consideration to these recommendations and take the steps necessary to prevent further drug-related harm.
“The music festivals industry has repeatedly put on the public record our desire to work with Government on these issues, including its music festival regulations.
“The Coroner’s recommendations include a regulatory roundtable involving government and industry stakeholders.
“This must be a priority in the lead-up to the next summer festival season,” Ms Richardson said.
“Next week the Government’s draft Music Festivals Bill goes to the Upper House with some proposed amendments. These amendments include a proposal to establish an industry roundtable to ensure ongoing consultation and transparency on the operation of the regulations.
“Despite repeated assurances of industry consultation, this has failed to eventuate.
“Given the Government’s failure to act so far, we believe it’s important that the consultation process is set out clearly in the legislation to ensure the commitment is delivered upon,” Ms Richardson said.
