The Andrews Labor Government is supercharging Victoria’s live music industry and delivering more jobs, by supporting businesses across the state to deliver the music festivals and events that Victorians love.
Victoria’s world renowned calendar of music festivals and events will get an $8 million boost as part of the Live Music Restart Program – Festivals & Events funding initiative, which supports the cost of planning and delivering an established music festival or series of events for crowds of more than 3000 people.
Organisers of large live music events and festivals can apply for grants of between $250,000 and $1 million, with eligible businesses to be registered in Victoria and events held within the state.
While setting the stage for some of the most memorable live music gigs, festivals also provide vital employment opportunities for Victorian artists, tech crews and industry workers – as well as significant benefits to connected sectors such as security, hospitality and tourism.
As the local music sector continues to bounce back from the impact of the pandemic, the program will prioritise events that create opportunities for Victorian musicians and deliver wider benefits to Victorian businesses and communities.
Designed to assist Victoria’s iconic music festivals and events to become more accessible, the program encourages applicants to make their events more inclusive of deaf and disabled artists, workers and audiences.
Live Music Restart Program – Festivals & Events is part of the Labor Government’s ongoing investment in the recovery of the state’s music industry, building on more than $1 billion in support to the creative sector since the start of the pandemic.
Applications close 3pm, 18 August 2022. For more information, visit creative.vic.gov.au/grants-and-support/programs.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimopoulos
“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.”
Quote attributable to Australian Festivals Association Managing Director Julia Robinson
“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.”
Reviewed 23 July 2022