An Illawarra musician says the local music industry is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain, with many artists forced to juggle multiple jobs as global competition and structural challenges reshape the sector.
Speaking on the University of Wollongong Alumni Stories: From Here On project, UOW alum Dominique Macquire, who performs as Hatsia, told hosts Millie Black and Sophie Wright only a small proportion of artists were able to work in music full-time.
“The days where artists are just doing music full-time are rare; a small percentage are in that state,” Macquire said.
“Many artists now have multiple artistic jobs, like songwriting or performing for others, to make a living.”
Macquire said globalisation has significantly affected how Australians engage with music, often at the expense of local artists.
“In Australia, we’ve been heavily impacted by globalisation in the music industry, which affects how people listen to music, they listen to a lot of overseas artists,” she said.
“That can be negative for local artists. For example, Olivia Dean got number one on the Triple J Hottest 100; I love her, she’s amazing, but it’s important to have quotas for Australian music.”
She pointed to gaps in policy support, particularly around local content requirements on commercial radio.
“I don’t think enough has been done to assist local artists in Australia,” Macquire said.
“Commercial radio missed out on some recent government frameworks that could have implemented more quotas.”
Despite these challenges, Macquire said changes in technology have opened new opportunities for independent artists to distribute their work.
“These days there are aggregators you can use to put your music on Spotify as an independent artist, which I couldn’t do when I was 21,” she said.
“Things have changed for the better in some ways, even if there are new pressures from AI and globalisation.”
Macquire made the comments during an interview reflecting on her career path after graduating from UOW with a double degree in journalism and law, which has included roles in law, government and cyber security, alongside her work as a musician.
She said social media and online platforms are now essential tools for emerging artists, even if they come with added pressures.
“All you can do is put your name out there on social media,” she said.
“Some artists find that difficult because they just want to make art, not self-promote.”
Macquire said artists should focus on creativity and collaboration despite the realities of the industry.
“Find the joy in it, make art with friends, and use YouTube,” she said.
She said there are signs of growing awareness around the need to support Australian music.
“People in Australia are becoming more aware of the need to support local artists, which is a good thing,” she said.
