Jun 1, 2026 – 6.25pmThe performing arts industry is making its biggest pitch yet for a tax break on production expenses, which it argues will boost new productions and government coffers, even as confusion remains about its upfront costs.Live Performance Australia, whose 400 members transacted most of the $3 billion in ticket sales generated by 31 million attendances at live shows in 2024, says a 40 per cent offset or rebate on the locally incurred costs of staging theatrical shows would create more than 4000 jobs over the forward estimates.Subscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Fetching latest articles
Performing arts industry takes tax fight to Canberra
The peak body representing $3 billion in annual live show ticket sales is urging the government to embrace a tax system they say will create thousands of new jobs.
TL;DRAI
Live Performance Australia, representing 400 members behind $3 billion in ticket sales and 31 million attendances in 2024, is lobbying Canberra for a 40% tax offset on local production costs for theatrical shows. The industry argues the rebate would generate over 4,000 jobs in the forward estimates — framing it as a net positive for government revenue, not just a sector subsidy.
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