PayPal Makes One-Time Exception to Help Bluesfest Ticket Holders Recoup Costs

PayPal has announced a special refund exception for ticket holders who purchased passes to the now-cancelled Byron Bay Bluesfest 2026 using the platform. “In light of Bluesfest’s sudden cancellation, and to support our customers, PayPal is making a one-time exception to its standard buyer protection eligibility window,” a PayPal spokesperson said. “PayPal will consider all eligible claims for Bluesfest 2026 (Byron Bay) tickets purchased using PayPal, including those made more than 180 days prior to the dispute.” Those who purchased tickets using PayPal’s buy now, pay later service “PayPal Pay in 4” have been directed to contact PayPal via the “contact us” section on the platform’s website to lodge a claim.

The move offers some relief to the estimated 10,000 ticket holders left out of pocket after Bluesfest went into liquidation on March 13, just weeks before its Easter weekend run. A one-day adult ticket was priced at $257, with three- and four-day passes costing up to $554 and $686 respectively, while camping and car parking added further costs. In an email to creditors shortly after the cancellation, liquidator Worrells...