The Morrison Government is reactivating live music across Australia, with venues across Victoria sharing in more than $2.5 million, in round two of the Live Music Australia Program.
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the grants would support the immediate needs of the Australian live music industry.
“The Australian music industry is facing particular pressures in light of the severe impacts of COVID-19. That is why we are pleased to continue to support local venues to increase performance opportunities and showcase Australian talent,” Minister Fletcher said.
“Round two of the Live Music Australia Program is funding venues in every state and territory, from pubs in the remote outback, to clubs and theatres in major capital cities, assisting them to re-open as restrictions on public gatherings and live music performance are lifted.”
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the funding will provide critical support for local live music venues and support local communities and economies to re-emerge from the pandemic.
“This critical funding will enable these venues to reinvigorate the live music scene as restrictions ease so venues can once again host local talent, increasing opportunities for local and touring Australian artists.”
Successful applications are:
- Barwon Club Investments Pty Ltd has received $50,000 for soundproofing to re-establish a regular live music program at the Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong;
- Hotel Shamrock, Bendigo has received $8,230 to install suitable new sound equipment for original Australian live music performances at the venue’s balcony and basement bar;
- Hop Temple at Ballarat has received $25,000 for audio equipment, staging and targeted marketing campaign to bring more live music to the venue; and
- “Odessa” at the Leavers Hotel in Creswick has received $26,000 for structural changes to improve the performance space and to host a series of quality, original, performances.
In August 2020, the Government announced the opening of the Live Music Australia program, which will deliver funding of $5 million annually over four years.
Applications for round three of the program will open later this year. For the list of round two recipients and for information on how to apply for round three, visit: www.grants.gov.au or www.arts.gov.au.