Survey evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on Australian musicians

Abstract

This study provides survey evidence concerning how COVID-19 has impacted Australian musicians. Between June and July 2020, we surveyed 203 musicians about the effects of the pandemic on their employment and income. We also asked about their sentiment concerning future employment and income opportunities, as well as general life satisfaction. We find overwhelming evidence of significant negative impacts on employment and income. Overall, sentiment about the future is quite negative. We suggest that during the recovery stages, policy should aim broadly at restoring industry demand as the primary mechanism to rebuild the industry.

Keywords: COVID-19, musicians, survey evidence

JEL Classification: L82, Z10