Lizzie Butterworth Is New Australian Festival Association CEO
Lizzie Butterworth has been appointed chief executive of the Australian Festival Association (AFA), the trade body representing festival organisers, suppliers and stakeholders across Australia's music festival sector. She takes over from Olly Arkins, who is leaving the role this Friday, 21 August, after five years at the helm, at a time when the industry faces regulatory, financial and operational pressures alongside shifting ticket-buying habits.
Butterworth spent six years working in the New South Wales parliament and government alongside arts, music and night-time economy minister John Graham, most recently as director of policy for arts, music, night-time economy, jobs and tourism. Her achievements there include establishing Sound NSW, reforming festival regulation and strengthening protections for live music venues. AFA chair Adelle Robinson said Butterworth's government experience and industry relationships make her well placed to lead the association, whose members include Live Nation, Laneway, CMC Rocks and Groovin' The Moo, among others.
- Lizzie Butterworth named new CEO of Australian Festival Association
- She replaces Olly Arkins, departing after five years on Friday
- Brings NSW government policy experience in music and night-time economy
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The Australian Festival Association represents organisations involved in putting on music festivals, including organisers and suppliers. Its members include major promoters and festivals, and it speaks for their shared interests across the sector.
Australian festivals operate under rules covering matters such as safety and licensing, while also facing financial and practical challenges. Changes in how people choose and buy tickets can affect festival attendance and planning.
Lizzie Butterworth has worked in arts and music policy in New South Wales, including on festival rules and support for live music venues. The association’s chief executive works with members and represents their concerns to government and the wider industry.