Save Bluesfest: Secure Government Funding to Sustain Bluesfest Byron Bay

Recent signers:
Emily Mitchell and 11 others have signed recently.

The issue

Born from an immense love of music and a passion for community, Bluesfest Byron Bay has been an integral part of our lives for many joyful years. Our most treasured festival, it is more than just an event - it is a vital expression of Australian music culture and creative vitality. The sad announcement that Bluesfest will be closing its doors after its 36th festival next year was met with deep sorrow.

Faced with an escalating cost of living and a music festival crisis, Bluesfest Byron Bay is seeking a government rescue package over the next three years. The survival of this incredible festival isn't just about preserving a beloved live music event. It's about sustaining our cultural heritage, supporting our music industry, and providing vital economic contributions to our local communities.

Why is Bluesfest Important? 

Cultural Significance: Bluesfest has been a cornerstone of the state’s cultural landscape, bringing world-class music to Byron Bay and fostering a vibrant community of artists and music lovers. 
 
Economic Impact: Over the last decade.  
 
Bluesfest generate $775 million for Byron Shire from festival goers spending in the community on accommodation, restaurants, etc.  
 
Plus over $1.1 billion in inbound tourism for NSW (people travelling from outside NSW or internationally) 
 
Sustaining 7,182 fulltime jobs in the Northern Rivers and employing 25,000 music industry workers employed onsite at the festival. 
 
Community Spirit: Bluesfest is more than just a festival – it’s a celebration of the arts, a driver of regional tourism, and a vital part of the local economy. We are the pride of our community for over 35 years. 


In addition to the economic benefits, Bluesfest's closure would also deprive future generations of invaluable cultural experiences. Rising costs and downward pressure on pricing have spelled disaster for many music festivals, and without government support, we face the prospect of a future without these cultural cornerstones.

We call upon the Government to assist in funding Bluesfest Byron Bay, ensuring it can continue to enrich our lives and contribute to the Australian economy for years to come. Please sign this petition to show your support to save our unique and vibrant festival.

4,980

Recent signers:
Emily Mitchell and 11 others have signed recently.

The issue

Born from an immense love of music and a passion for community, Bluesfest Byron Bay has been an integral part of our lives for many joyful years. Our most treasured festival, it is more than just an event - it is a vital expression of Australian music culture and creative vitality. The sad announcement that Bluesfest will be closing its doors after its 36th festival next year was met with deep sorrow.

Faced with an escalating cost of living and a music festival crisis, Bluesfest Byron Bay is seeking a government rescue package over the next three years. The survival of this incredible festival isn't just about preserving a beloved live music event. It's about sustaining our cultural heritage, supporting our music industry, and providing vital economic contributions to our local communities.

Why is Bluesfest Important? 

Cultural Significance: Bluesfest has been a cornerstone of the state’s cultural landscape, bringing world-class music to Byron Bay and fostering a vibrant community of artists and music lovers. 
 
Economic Impact: Over the last decade.  
 
Bluesfest generate $775 million for Byron Shire from festival goers spending in the community on accommodation, restaurants, etc.  
 
Plus over $1.1 billion in inbound tourism for NSW (people travelling from outside NSW or internationally) 
 
Sustaining 7,182 fulltime jobs in the Northern Rivers and employing 25,000 music industry workers employed onsite at the festival. 
 
Community Spirit: Bluesfest is more than just a festival – it’s a celebration of the arts, a driver of regional tourism, and a vital part of the local economy. We are the pride of our community for over 35 years. 


In addition to the economic benefits, Bluesfest's closure would also deprive future generations of invaluable cultural experiences. Rising costs and downward pressure on pricing have spelled disaster for many music festivals, and without government support, we face the prospect of a future without these cultural cornerstones.

We call upon the Government to assist in funding Bluesfest Byron Bay, ensuring it can continue to enrich our lives and contribute to the Australian economy for years to come. Please sign this petition to show your support to save our unique and vibrant festival.

Petition Updates