Sign Up
..... Connect Australia with the world.
Categories

Posted: 2024-09-24 00:48:04

Powderfinger legend John "JC" Collins has been tasked with the job of reviving Queensland's struggling nightlife scene.

The Brisbane muso has been appointed to the new role of Queensland Night-Life Economy Commissioner by the state government.

The announcement comes after several major festivals and venues collapsed due to unprofitability, including The Zoo in July this year.

Mr Collins said his first priority was to consider what rules and regulations can be slashed in order to help venues, restaurants, and businesses breathe.

"We need to come up with policies that are based on data," Mr Collins said.

"The first thing I'll do is open up the book, look at the regulations, see where we can soften certain things to make it easier for music venues."

He said he particularly wanted to review the state's liquor licensing laws with a view to cut costs for venues. 

Mr Collins also flagged he was "not a fan" of Queensland's ID scanner laws handed down in 2016. 

He has previously called to ditch the mandatory scanning of IDs at venues, labelling it an "antiquated" practice. 

Mr Collins declined to comment on whether Queensland's 3am last drinks lock-out laws should be scrapped. 

Queensland's new role is based on NSW's 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, which was created in 2021.

So far the NSW Commissioner has cut liquor licence fees for venues offering live music, softened noise regulations, and extended hours for bars and restaurants.

Man with stubble smiling wearing a blue blazer and pokadot shirt

John Collins says Brisbane needs to get its house in order before the 2032 Olympics. (ABC News: Nickoles Coleman)

Mr Collins said the new role would make Brisbane "get our house in order to get ready for the world's biggest party" at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

Mr Collins is the co-owner and director of the Fortitude Valley Music Hall and the Triffid, two of Brisbane's most well-known venues.

He is also the vice president of QMusic, a board member of Brisbane Economic Development Agency, and is best known as the bassist for Powderfinger until 2010.

Premier Steven Miles delivering the state of the state address

Premier Steven Miles says Mr Pitt should be proud of his work. (AAP: Darren England)

Queensland Premier Steven Miles said Mr Collins had a track record of championing Queensland's nightlife scene.

"JC is synonymous with success, whether that's on stage or in business," Mr Miles said.

"He is a great appointment for Queensland and brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and know-how to drive our nightlife economy to a different level and help businesses of all sizes to thrive."

A close-up of Leeanne Enoch  smiling with trees behind her.

Leeanne Enoch says venues are struggling under cost of living pressures. (ABC News: Chris Gillette)

Queensland Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch said they wanted to activate the state's entertainment precincts, which were worth millions to the economy.

"We know live music venues are facing increasing cost pressures, and we are amping up our support with these new funds to help smaller live music venues, alongside the appointment of the Night-Life Economy Commissioner," Ms Enoch said.

"Our government is committed to unlocking opportunities to strengthen the state's live music industry and night-time economy and deliver a uniquely Queensland soundtrack to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games."

View More
  • 0 Comment(s)
Captcha Challenge
Reload Image
Type in the verification code above