A Quick Chat with Michelle Lucia
Live Nation have recently launched the Next On initiative, could you tell us a little bit about how the initiative will work and who it will benefit?
“Next On is designed to open up more pathways for developing artists. Live Nation is making its venues available rent free and easing some of the early pressures so artists can step onto a professional stage, keep 100% of ticket and merch revenue, and be supported by our broader marketing and industry network. Experiences like these help artists grow, build confidence and find momentum at a key stage in their journey.
“The benefit flows well beyond the artists themselves. When developing talent is supported, the whole live ecosystem gets stronger. Fans discover fresh acts, local venues stay vibrant and the industry builds a healthier pipeline for the future. Next On is Live Nation’s way of backing the next wave of talent and helping them feel confident stepping forward.”
Which venues will be available and are there plans to expand the program to other venues?
“For launch, Live Nation has chosen venues that already have a strong connection to Australian artists. The program is starting with Palais Theatre On The Stage in Melbourne, The Triffid and The Outpost at Fortitude Music Hall in Brisbane, the King’s Room at Anita’s Theatre in Thirroul, Divide at Hindley Street Music Hall in Adelaide and the Tuning Fork in Auckland. Each of these rooms has its own community and a reputation for supporting developing talent, so they make a strong foundation for Next On.
“Live Nation is also thinking beyond this first group. Once the program is live and the team sees where demand is strongest, there will be opportunities to bring more venues on board outside the Live Nation venue network. The long-term aim is to build a pathway that stretches right across Australia and New Zealand.”
What sort of artists are you looking for, and how can they register for this opportunity?
“Live Nation is looking for developing artists who are ready to take the next step in their live career. They might already be active in their local scene or building a following, but the key indicators are motivation and a strong desire to grow. Genre is wide open but they should be able to fill a room of between 200–300 fans. The goal is simply to support artists who are excited to step into a professional space and make the most of the opportunity.
“Registering is simple. Artists can visit the Next On page on the Live Nation website, submit a few details about themselves and their music, and the Live Nation team will take it from there. The aim is for the process to feel open, accessible and supportive, so anyone who feels ready should absolutely put their hand up.”
Live Nation is most known for bringing some of the biggest international stars to Australian shores, but you also invest a lot into local up-and-coming artists. Who are some of the local talent that have impressed you in 2025?
“Alongside the incredible international artists we work with, we’re constantly inspired by the local talent coming through. This year, Mathilde has been a real standout through our Ones To Watch artists with disability showcase, J Milla has continued to build momentum after our Ones To Watch Darwin First Nations showcase and his NAIDOC Week session with the team, and Fletcher Kent had a breakout moment supporting Lewis Capaldi on his 2025 tour. They’re a great snapshot of the depth and diversity across Australian music right now.”
What are some of the things indie artists can do to try and increase their audience and sell more tickets in 2025?
“The biggest thing indie artists can do is stay active. Keep releasing music, play shows regularly and stay present with your audience. Live performance is still one of the strongest ways to build a following because every show gives you a chance to win new fans.
“Community matters too. Collaborate with other artists, engage with your fans and be part of your local scene. When people feel connected to you, they turn up. Small, consistent steps can make a significant impact over the year.”
Live Nation Presents: Next On
Next On is Live Nation’s new program giving developing artists real stages, real support and real income.
Hosted at iconic Live Nation venues across Australia and New Zealand, artists perform rent-free, set their own ticket prices and keep 100% of ticket and merchandise revenue. Live Nation provides full production, marketing, PR and industry support to help artists grow their audience and careers.
One venue hosts a local showcase each month, backed by Live Nation’s network reaching millions of fans. Shows kicking off in 2026 across Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Thirroul and Auckland.
Palais Theatre – On The Stage, Melbourne
The Triffid, Brisbane
The Outpost at Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane
Anita’s Theatre – King’s Room, Thirroul
Divide, Hindley Street Music Hall, Adelaide
Tuning Fork, Auckland (NZ)