Victoria’s live music industry will receive a new A$8m (£4.6m/$5.6m/€5.4m) boost from the government as part of the Live Music Restart Program – Festivals and Events funding initiative.
The program supports the cost of planning and delivering an established music festival or a series of events that will attract crowds of more than 3,000 people. The funding will also help the delivery of more jobs in the Australian state and provide support to businesses across the sector.
Organisers of large live music events and festivals can apply for grants between A$250,000 and A$1m, and eligible businesses must be registered in Victoria with the events taking place in the state.
The initiative will continue to support employment opportunities at gigs and festivals, but also for local Victorian artists, tech crews and industry workers. It will also provide opportunities for the security, hospitality and tourism sectors.
The program is also encouraging applicants to make their events more inclusive of deaf and disabled artists, workers and audiences.
Applications for the funding, which is part of a wider A$1bn support package for the creative industries since the start of the pandemic, close on August 18.
Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimopoulos said: “Music Festivals are a vital part of Victoria’s famous live music scene and this investment provides essential funding for organisers to continue delivering world-class events.
“We’re supporting the businesses that deliver the experiences Victorians love, while creating jobs and economic benefits that extend right across the state.”
Australian Festivals Association managing director Julia Robinson added: “We welcome these grants at a time when businesses are facing rising costs and staff shortages. After over two years of disruptions, this much-needed support will ensure summer sees the return of Victoria’s favourite festivals.”
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