• John Collins appointed as Queensland’s first Night-Life Economy Commissioner
• Night-life across the state worth millions to the economy
• Premier Steven Miles announces $1.6 million in funding to support live music in Queensland

Queensland’s vibrant night life is about to become even more energised with the appointment of John “JC” Collins as the first Queensland Night-Life Economy Commissioner.

The former Powderfinger bass player is co-owner and venue director of the Fortitude Valley Music Hall and The Triffid, and Vice President of QMusic.

He’s also board member of Brisbane Economic Development Agency and best known as bassist for Powderfinger until 2010.

Mr Collins says he’s “very excited” and “privileged” to be given the opportunity to represent the nightlife economy.

“I’m very excited about getting around and talking to all the stakeholders in the state and hearing what they’ve got to say and then being a consistent message between the nightlife economy and the Government,” Mr Collins says.

The news was announced on Tuesday via social media:

“Introducing Queensland’s first-ever Night Life Commissioner, John Collins (JC)! 🎸⁠”, the announcement says.

“Exciting times ahead for Queensland’s night scene! On ya, JC!”

JC’s new role serving live music and events sector

Mr Collins will work with live music venues, nightclubs, festival organisers, bars and restaurants, entertainment precincts, arts outlets, and local pubs across Queensland to boost the night economy which generates millions of dollars.

Brisbane has been a night life hotspot for decades, with similar entertainment districts springing up at cities and towns around the state, which support live music, theatre, arts, entertainment, festivals, dining and tourism activities.

He will develop and assist partnerships to encourage growth and sustainability of the thousands of local businesses which drive the industry and promote and strengthen development opportunities for more established venues and events.

Mr Collins will provide insights into the night life industry to support state and local government approaches to nurturing and enhancing the opportunities for Queenslanders and visitors to enjoy a great night out and to boost the Queensland economy.

$1.6 million in funding to support venues

Queensland Premier Steven Miles also announced the Miles Government is providing $1.6 million to support venues.

The funds will help grow and enhance the sustainability of their businesses, as well as providing a stage for local musicians to develop their talents.

Available through the Growing Gigs Fund and the Live Music Venue Business Grants, the funds aim to assist venues to diversify and develop more opportunities, offset operational costs, and amplify the growth of the live music industry for local musicians and artists.

Small music venues can apply for Growing Gigs Fund grants of up to $10,000 to support performance fees for Queensland contemporary music artists connecting audiences with local and live music.

The venues can also access up to $25,000 to invest in business improvement initiatives with the aim of developing stronger businesses for the future.

Premier Miles says JC has “always been a champion of Queensland’s nightlife”.

“JC is synonymous with success; whether that’s on stage or in business. 

“He is a great appointment for Queensland and brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and know-how to drive our night life economy to a different level and help businesses of all sizes to thrive.

“We will continue to work closely to ensure we protect the safe environment my Government has worked hard to build and enforce, while also growing opportunities for our business and arts sectors.”

Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development Lance McCallum says John Collins isn’t just a legendary musician, but “a Queensland icon”.

“As a member of Powderfinger, John helped shape the soundtrack of our generation, and now, he’s the perfect choice to shape the future of Queensland’s nightlife economy.

“Queenslanders want and deserve to have a great, safe night out, and no one understands that better than John Collins – from playing gigs to owning iconic venues, his experience and dedication to our nightlife economy is unrivalled.

“His passion for live music and his deep connection to Queensland’s creative industries make him the ideal person to steer our Nightlife Economy into a thriving future.”

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch says the investment of a nighttime commissioner is an “investment” in the state’s live music.

“(It) recognises their important role in platforming and celebrating Queensland talent, creating jobs for music artists and managers, and activating precincts and communities,” Ms Enoch says.

“We know live music venues are facing increasing cost pressures, and we are amping up our support with these new funds to help smaller live music venues, alongside the appointment of the Night-Life Economy Commissioner.

“Our government is committed to unlocking opportunities to strengthen the state’s live music industry and night-time economy and deliver a uniquely Queensland soundtrack to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”