The City of Sydney commissioned Urbis to research potential links between live music and alcohol consumption. This pilot study, a response to an action within the City of Sydney’s Live Music and Performance Action Plan (2014), involved surveying patrons, observing patron behaviour and analysing sales data at nine venues across Sydney.

Urbis’ findings suggested there may be a link between live music and lower rates of alcohol consumption.

Urbis’ findings suggested there may be a link between live music and lower rates of alcohol consumption. This was based on statistics gathered throughout the night at a music event, and also by comparing live music nights and non-live music nights at the same venue. Our report recommended further research to investigate a larger number of venues.

This research informs the  City’s strategies to revitalise Sydney’s cultural life through live music and performance.