The Victorian Government recently announced two programs designed to bolster the state’s live music scene, in response to pressures of rising costs and changes in attendance following the pandemic.
The programs are designed to create more paid gigs for both new and established local artists, with at least a quarter of the $10 million funding to be directed towards events and venues in regional Victoria.
The 10,000 Gigs: The Victorian Gig Fund is part of an initiative by the Victorian Government to support 10,000 live gigs over four years. $10k grants are available for established live music venues to go towards artists’ fees.
This was established after a parliamentary inquiry into the issues the sector has faced since the pandemic, and in recognition of the contributions Victorian pubs have made to the music industry both locally and internationally.
“This is about supporting those venues and through them supporting the artists,” says Colin Brooks, Minister for Creative Industries.
“It’s about giving opportunities to particularly emerging artists coming through the grassroots venues that we’ve got.”
Simone Schinkel, Chief Executive for Music Victoria, stressed the importance of the pubs.
“Venues are vital in our ecology and this is all about keeping the great stuff going on in Victoria after all the cancellation.
“We also want to back Victorian talent because we want the diversity of our community to be represented on those stages.”
The second program is The Live Music Festivals Fund, which is focused on supporting established festival organisers in Victoria and offers up to $50k per grant.
Venues and festivals can apply for the grants from 10am 22 April until 2pm 17 May.
For further information or to register interest visit Music Victoria.
