Parliament Urges Regulation of Ticket Sales in Australia
A recent Parliament inquiry in Australia has called for stricter regulations on ticket selling practices within the country. The inquiry, titled “Am I Ever Gonna See You Live Again?” delves into the live music sector in Australia, highlighting potential changes and opportunities within the industry. One of the key recommendations made by the inquiry is for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to closely monitor the industry for any instances of anti-competitive behavior. Additionally, the inquiry suggests amending the country’s consumer laws to better oversee ticket selling activities.
The report specifically targets practices that may not be outright misleading or deceptive but still have a significant impact on consumer choice. This includes activities that create a false sense of urgency or scarcity, ultimately leading to distorted purchasing decisions among consumers. The ultimate goal is to enhance transparency regarding fee structures and charging practices associated with the purchase of concert tickets.
The inquiry reveals that a significant portion of Australia’s major concert market, estimated at about 90%, is controlled by just three major players – Live Nation, TEG Live, and AEG Frontier. The report also highlights the banning of “dynamic pricing” in Australia, a practice that adjusts ticket prices in real-time based on demand. This ban came in response to a thorough investigation by ABC’s Four Corners, which uncovered instances of market manipulation by Live Nation and its adverse effects on the country’s wider music scene.
According to Four Corners, Live Nation’s aggressive market strategies have led to the decline of the once-thriving Australian underground music scene, with over 1,300 music venues closing down and multiple festivals being either acquired or called off. Furthermore, the report suggests that Live Nation is intentionally targeting and squeezing out local competition by acquiring smaller independent operators, further consolidating its dominance in the market.
In response to these findings, the Australian government issued a statement expressing its concerns over businesses employing dishonest practices that make it difficult for consumers to make informed decisions. The government emphasized the need to curb these tactics, which often result in hidden fees or additional costs, thereby exacerbating the overall cost of living for Australians.
The Parliament inquiry’s focus on the ticketing sector in Australia underscores the importance of ensuring fair and transparent practices within the live music industry. By recommending tighter regulations and oversight, the report aims to protect consumer rights and promote a more equitable marketplace for both performers and audiences alike. As discussions continue around implementing these proposed changes, stakeholders across the industry will be closely watching to see how these reforms may reshape the future of ticket selling in the country.