NSW Government Calls on Industry to Review ‘Entertainment Industry Act’

NSW Government's Dominic Perrottet and Chris
Courtesy of Dom Perrottet/ Instagram

The “Entertainment Industry Act 2013” in New South Wales is up for review to check if it is still fit for purpose.

The NSW Government has called on industry stakeholders and members of the public to provide feedback in a bid to improve regulation and decide if any changes can be made.

The review is looking for feedback on industry representatives and their obligations, dispute resolution between performers and industry reps or hirers, penalty and enforcement arrangements, a public register and duty of care and due diligence guidelines.

Interested parties can fill out a survey here, upload a submission or send something in via the post.

A discussion paper provides more details on what the Government is looking for.

Natasha Mann, NSW’s Fair Trading Commissioner, said a review of the “Entertainment Industry Act” was essential to protect and support the industry and ensure it’s up-to-date, relevant and reflects the sector’s ongoing changes.

“We have witnessed pivotal changes in the entertainment industry, not only prompted by the pandemic but the introduction of new technologies continues to shape how entertainment is consumed and delivered,” Mann said.

“The past couple of years have been difficult, with the COVID pandemic having a major impact on the state’s nightlife, with performers and venues forced to cancel entertainment,” she added.

“We’re seeking feedback from all parries – this includes performers, lawyers, managers, venue operators and any other industry representatives who would like to have their say.”

The consultation is open until 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 29.

The NSW Government said it will publish any insights it learns from the consultation process.

The review is required by law eight years from the Act’s commencement date. An interim review in 2018 found that the Act was meeting its objectives and operating as intended, so no changes were enacted at the time.