Yes parties do seem to be getting more expensive, but it is really only the 'Mega raves' that are over the $60 mark and I still say that comparitivly its good value for money.
If a major international rock band comes to town tickets are usually in the $40-$80 dollar range (or $120 for U2's last tour!) and that is for what lets say a 3 hour show( include support band). Now the major parties have production values that are easily an equal (if not better) to a major rock concert, international guest's and a good solid 10-12 hours of entertainment, all in all pretty good value for money I reckon!