NSW MP Starts Petition To Save Bluesfest

Tamara Smith MP, the local member for Ballina, has started an E-Petition to save Bluesfest.

Earlier this month, the festival announced that the 2025 event would be its final bash, later revealing the first 20 acts to play at Bluesfest 2025. However, there is a glimmer of hope for Bluesfest to continue growing its legacy for future generations.

In Smith’s E-Petition, the MP calls on the NSW Government to offer Bluesfest a rescue package.

If the petition receives 20,000 signatures, NSW Parliament must address the future of Bluesfest via a debate. As a press release notes, “This is our chance to rally together and ensure that one of Australia’s most iconic music festivals continues to thrive for years to come.”

Smith is calling on the NSW and Federal governments to save Bluesfest. In a statement, Smith said, “We cannot afford to lose Bluesfest. It is imperative that we take collective action to ensure its survival for future generations to enjoy.”

Smith points out the cultural significance, economic impact, and community spirit Bluesfest brings to Byron Bay each year.

The festival has created a “vibrant” community of artists and music lovers alike, has generated $775 million for Byron Shire and over $1 billion for New South Wales over the last decade – as well as supporting 20,000 jobs and tourism across the Byron Shire – and is more than a festival. It’s a “celebration of the arts, a driver of regional tourism, and a vital part of our local economy.”

You can help ensure the future of Bluesfest by signing the E-Petition here and sharing it with your family, friends, and colleagues. If you received the email about the E-Petition, forward it to your network and share the petition on social media with the hashtag #SaveBluesfest.

The 2025 Bluesfest will return over the Easter Weekend: Thursday, 17 April, to Sunday, 20 April, with a line-up currently headed by Crowded House.

Another 19 local and international acts will join Crowded House, including Vance Joy, Tones & I, Ocean Alley, Gary Clark Jr, Rag'n'Bone Man, RY X, Allison Russell, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Pierce Brothers, Marc Broussard, 19-Twenty, WILSN, and Aussie country stars Brad Cox and Fanny Lumsden.

In addition to the acts mentioned above, the festival has locked in exclusive performances from Here Come The Mummies, The California Honeydrops, Taj Farrant, Cimafunk, and Neal Francis.

Early bird tickets for Bluesfest 2025 are now available – get in quick and secure your tickets here.