Canberra's live music scene is being told to "amp it up!" as the government introduces new changes that will let Civic venues' gigs run later and their artists play louder.
MusicACT president David Caffery said the changes would help the music industry cut red tape and regulatory hurdles and give a boost to the city's nightlife.
"We're a boring city," he said.
"We want to create more excitement, especially after COVID. It's been really hard for the sector.
"Cost of living means that people have to choose between buying groceries or going to a gig. Of course, they're going to choose the groceries. But we want to see that change by making it cheaper to put on events."
Minister for the arts, culture and the creative economy Tara Cheyne said changes in Canberran's habits had meant that for many, Friday nights were spent curling up on the couch with Stan or Netflix rather than out at a gig.
"We want people in the city. We want this to be an entertainment district, not just a business district," she said.
Changes will allow smal-l and medium-sized venues that host a minimum of 10 arts or live music events to claim an 80 per cent reduction on their liquor licence fees.
Ms Cheyne said since introducing the licences last week, they have already received 10 applications, with more expected to come.
There will also be an increase in noise limits - from 60 to 75 decibels - at certain times throughout the week, and free loading zone permits for musicians setting up for gigs.
Owner of Civic bar Squeaky Clean Jono Murphy said the new noise standards would give music venues more confidence.
"It will reduce the risk and it will definitely be an encouragement to put on more events," he said.
Addressing concerns regarding neighbouring noise complaints, Ms Cheyne said the changes to volume restrictions had been discussed in detail with local residents and the Environmental Protection Authority.
"I have confidence that ... residents will embrace it," she said.
"Fun creates noise, but we're approaching it in a way that is transparent and gives people confidence."
Mr Caffery said the priority was to avoid the "brain drain" by encouraging artists to stay in Canberra to pursue their music careers.
He said while it wasn't up to government to change the city's culture, the new policy package would give festival and event managers the tools to put on more cultural events.
"Over time, you'll have a culture permitted by the changes that are happening today," Mr Caffery said.
Performing at Squeaky Clean, Canberran Hip-Hop artist Citizen Kay said he was optimistic.
"I don't think Canberra is boring. I've been flying that flag for a while so [the changes] are only adding to my praise of Canberra," he said.
The nightlife reforms will be trialled in Civic over the next three months, with Belconnen, Tuggeranong and Gunghalin set to see future changes.
