The operators of some of Melbourne’s most beloved live music venues say they are operating at a loss for shows after losing government support and while coronavirus restrictions continue to limit audiences.
The Andrews government announced on Friday that seated entertainment and sporting venues across Victoria can return to 100 per cent capacity, with a maximum of 1000 patrons per space.
The Corner and Northcote Social Club part owner Tim Northeast says his band rooms are unable to work profitability due to the COVID-19 density requirements in Victoria.Credit:Paul Jeffers
But restrictions remain on non-seated areas, affecting standing audiences at gigs, nightclub dance floors and lobbies at seated venues, which all must have a coronavirus density quotient of one person for every two square metres.
Tim Northeast, part owner of the Corner Hotel and Northcote Social Club, said the two venues had capped audiences at about 40 per cent for live music.
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“The band rooms are not sustainable or profitable,” Mr Northeast said. “The thing holding us back is this density ratio.”
He said it was frustrating for the industry that other forms of entertainment, including sport, seated theatre and comedy were able to have crowds of 75 per cent or more.
“It’s really hard for the music industry to see what the difference is,” Mr Northeast said.
“The industry just wants to be on the same competitive level.”
