The changes come as part of the Live Music Action Agenda, and announced by Minister for Planning Matthew Guy, Minister for Liquor and Gaming Regulation Edward O’Donohue, and Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith.
Other reforms includes streamlined licensing controls, updated planning rules, reduced regulatory burden for smaller venues (that is, under 500 square metres), a fund of $500,000 to help heritage venues sound proof, and a much-needed review of noise regulations.
Legislation will be introduced to the Parliament to require the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor to consider the Agent of Change principle when dealing with noise complaints.
Matthew Guy said the Napthine Government was moving ahead with its promise to enshrine the agent of change principle in the state’s planning framework.
“New residential developments built near existing live music venues will be responsible for noise mitigation features as part of the planning process,” he pointed out “This means beloved pubs and clubs that are home to live music in Victoria will not be forced to close due to noise complaints from those in new apartment buildings or new houses next door. New music venues will of course also be held to these new standards and will be responsible for mitigating the impact of their noise on neighbours.”
Edward O’Donohue did some point scoring by commenting the Napthine Government was proud of its efforts to save and promote live music in Victoria. “The previous Labor government tried to fix the problems of street violence by effectively regulating live music venues out of existence. It was an approach that was unfair and ineffective. We are fixing it,” he said.
Given the venues that have been lost in recent years, it’s a case of better late than never.
