When Bianca Wilmott decided to surprise her boyfriend with tickets to Lady Gaga’s upcoming Australian tour, she knew exactly how to manage the cost. The 32-year-old social media manager from Sydney’s inner west opted to use the buy now, pay later (BNPL) service Afterpay to cover the $1,200 expense for two tickets.
“It’s part of my budgeting, to be able to split the payment up … I wouldn’t have [purchased tickets without Afterpay] because I wouldn’t have wanted to make that big payment in one go,” Wilmott explained. She was among 11,500 people who used the BNPL platform to purchase Lady Gaga tickets.
Data reveals that BNPL transactions accounted for a staggering 60 percent of Coachella ticket sales this year, highlighting a growing trend among concertgoers. According to Afterpay, 1.5 million transactions were made in live entertainment in Australia over the 12 months leading up to April 2025. This surge coincides with a wave of major international acts such as Katy Perry, Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Olivia Rodrigo, along with local favorite Kylie Minogue. Later this year, big names like Metallica, Kendrick Lamar, Bad Bunny, Oasis, and Usher are set to perform, further driving demand.
Concert Ticket Prices on the Rise
The rise in BNPL usage is closely linked to increasing ticket prices. A report from Live Performance Australia revealed that the average concert ticket price jumped from $87.01 in 2022 to $128.21 in 2023. This significant increase is prompting more consumers to seek flexible payment options.
“The average price for a concert ticket rose from $87.01 in 2022 to $128.21 in 2023.”
Industry experts suggest that several factors contribute to the rising costs, including inflation, increased production expenses, and the high demand for live entertainment post-pandemic. As artists and promoters strive to recoup losses from canceled or postponed events, ticket prices are expected to continue climbing.
The Impact of Buy Now, Pay Later Services
BNPL services like Afterpay, Zip, and Klarna have become increasingly popular, particularly among younger consumers who prioritize experiences over material goods. These platforms allow users to spread payments over several weeks or months without incurring interest, making them an attractive option for those managing tight budgets.
According to a report by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the BNPL sector in Australia has grown by more than 50 percent in recent years, with more than 6 million active accounts as of 2023. This growth is mirrored globally, as consumers worldwide embrace the flexibility offered by these services.
“The BNPL sector in Australia has grown by more than 50 percent in recent years, with more than 6 million active accounts as of 2023.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Concert Financing
As the live entertainment industry continues to recover and evolve, the relationship between ticket pricing and financing options will remain a critical factor for consumers. While BNPL services offer a solution for many, experts warn of potential pitfalls, such as accumulating debt and the temptation to overspend.
Financial advisors recommend that consumers carefully consider their budgets and the terms of BNPL agreements before committing. As concert ticket prices show no signs of decreasing, the demand for flexible payment options is likely to persist.
Meanwhile, the music industry may explore alternative pricing models, such as tiered pricing or subscription services, to accommodate a broader range of budgets. As the landscape of live entertainment financing continues to shift, both consumers and industry stakeholders will need to adapt to these changes.
In conclusion, the surge in BNPL usage for concert tickets reflects broader economic trends and consumer preferences. As ticket prices rise, the demand for flexible payment options will likely increase, shaping the future of how audiences access live entertainment.
