Two new programs have been released by Sound NSW, the government department dedicated to promoting the live music industry, under its Venue Upgrade Grants Initiative.
Open to NSW live music venue owners and operators, the first program is for Venue Upgrade Advice, where grants of up to $20K will be awarded to support input from relevant experts and consultants in the form of reports, such as accessibility or soundproofing, assistance with applications and planning, legal advice and more.
This funding seeks to increase the number of suitable live music venues in NSW, improve sound management and sustainable programming practices, reduce noise complaints, and diversify live music offerings to enhance the audience and visitor experience.
Applicants will be required to contribute at least 30 per cent of total costs.
Projects must begin by 17 April this year and end by 30 June 2026.
For guidelines and further information visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/venue-upgrade-grants-program-1-24/25.
Similarly, the second program, Venue Upgrade Facilities, offers grants of up to $250K to dedicated live music venues in NSW to support infrastructure development and the purchase of equipment.
This funding aims to enhance live music venues in NSW by increasing their capacity to deliver world-class experiences, improving sound management and programming, reducing noise impact, boosting business viability, and expanding the diversity of live music offerings.
This will be achieved through the purchase of production equipment and audio-visual technology, or by providing infrastructure improvements such as soundproofing, accessibility, ventilation and more.
Projects must begin by 14 March this year and end by 30 June 2026.
For guidelines and further information visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/venue-upgrade-grants-program-2-24/25.
Both grant initiatives are funded by Sound NSW, while the programs are administered by Create NSW.
