Campaign “Give-a-Gig” Aims to Make Concerts Affordable for Youth

Live music experiences are becoming increasingly unattainable for young fans, prompting the launch of the “Give-a-Gig” campaign by the Australian non-profit charity The Push. This initiative aims to provide young Australians the opportunity to attend their first live concert for free, highlighting the growing concern over the rising costs of concert tickets.

The financial burden of live entertainment has intensified, exacerbated by inflation and limited job opportunities offering living wages. A report by The BBC reveals that in the UK, 51% of the population has been deterred from attending concerts due to high prices at least once in the past five years. Among concert-goers aged 16 to 34, two-thirds have reduced their attendance. This trend raises the question of accessibility in live music and who it is intended for.

Australian songwriter and producer Jack Antonoff emphasized the need for awareness on this issue during a recent interview with Hayley Williams for Rolling Stone. He stated, “We just have to keep talking about it so nobody thinks it’s normal.” Thankfully, initiatives like “Give-a-Gig” are stepping in to address these challenges.

AusArt Day to Support Arts Philanthropy

The “Give-a-Gig” campaign is part of a larger initiative called AusArt Day, designed to mobilize artists and arts organizations across Australia. This fundraising day aims to energize support for the arts sector by encouraging donations to sustain creative endeavors. The inaugural AusArt Day will take place on October 23, 2025, celebrating the vital role of the arts in Australian society.

Many young people face significant barriers to cultural experiences, including high ticket prices, transportation challenges, and a lack of all-ages events. The Push addresses these issues by advocating for safe, drug and alcohol-free concerts that cater to younger audiences. The organization believes that access to inclusive cultural spaces is essential for young individuals to socialize, express creativity, and engage with their communities.

Impact of The Push’s Initiatives

The Push has been instrumental in enhancing the lives of over 250,000 young Australians by lowering barriers to cultural participation. Through partnerships that promote all-ages concerts and provide education, outreach, and skills-building workshops, The Push is committed to fostering a vibrant music scene accessible to all.

The “Give-a-Gig” initiative receives co-support from Live Nation, further amplifying its reach and impact. For Australians who wish to contribute to this worthy cause, donations can be made to fund a young person’s inaugural concert experience.

As concert prices continue to soar, campaigns like “Give-a-Gig” are crucial in ensuring that live music remains an inclusive and accessible experience, allowing the next generation to engage with the cultural landscape.