Victoria’s music cred is about to get even stronger with the Andrews Labor Government announcing almost $500,000 for local musicians and music initiatives, as well as kicking off the project to upgrade one of Melbourne’s most iconic music venues.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley brought together music industry veterans and fresh faces at St Kilda’s Palais Theatre to announce the latest round of Music Works grants, supporting Victorian musicians, bands and industry development activities.
The Push’s Girls Rock! Squad is one of the 45 recipients in the latest round of Music Works, a program designed to strengthen Victoria’s music scene from the ground up. Girls Rock! is a five-day intensive music camp for girls, run by female mentors, to increase participation in the music industry.
Other supported projects include career-making international tours, the recording and release of new albums and festivals in Ballarat and Bendigo.
The announcement comes as works kick off to refurbish the 90-year-old Palais Theatre and secure its long-term future. Built Pty Ltd, a construction company with extensive experience with complex heritage buildings, has been appointed to deliver the $20 million project.
The project, to be carried out in consultation with Heritage Victoria, will fix critical issues, including upgrading the building’s electrical and fire protection systems, structural stabilisation inside the theatre, and repairs to its magnificent exterior.
Built will employ around 200 workers on the project. The works will not affect the many concertgoers with tickets to planned events. The venue will only be closed for 19 days between June 14 and July 8, when no events are scheduled. Work is expected to be complete in early 2017.
The Palais Theatre is one of Melbourne’s most recognisable and beloved live music venues. It attracts 250,000 patrons each year, including many interstate and international visitors. Its refurbishment is a joint project between the Victorian Government and the City of Port Phillip.
To see the full list of Music Works grant recipients, visit
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“Melbourne is recognised widely as one of the world’s great music cities. Venues like the Palais are critical to this, but more important is having the talent and programs to bring them to life.”
“Through Music Works, we are investing in all aspects of our local industry, from artists and record labels to venues and education programs.”
“We are getting on with our election commitment to maintain the Palais Theatre, protecting the life and legacy of Melbourne’s most iconic live music venues.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020