The Allan Labor Government is backing local musicians, venues and festivals and keeping jobs and the economy pumping in the live music capital of Australia.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant today announced the local venues and festivals that will benefit from a $3 million boost designed to strengthen the industry and the jobs and communities it supports.

The latest round of 10,000 Gigs: The Victorian Gig Fund will fund 136 venues across the state to stage paid gigs by local artists.

Local recipients include Bellarine Estate, The Blues Train and Queenscliff Town Hall.

The Live Music Festivals Fund will support 11 festivals across the state with grants of up to $50,000 to help put on new or existing events, including Queenscliff Music Festival.

In addition, more artists will have opportunities to develop their careers through Multicultural Arts Victoria’s NEWPRINT program, which is designed to support artists, producers and creative workers from culturally and linguistically diverse communities to break into the music industry and take their careers to the next level. 

Live music plays a crucial role in Victoria’s creative sector, while driving jobs and the economy. This latest package will support not only the musicians on stage, but the crews behind them, as well as venue owners, hospitality staff and local businesses.

The grants are part of a $35.4 million package announced in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 to support Victoria’s music industry at all levels, and in all parts of the state. For a full list of recipients visit creative.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks

“We’re backing our artists, venues and festivals to continue delivering the incredible music, performances and events that form part of our cultural fabric and make us the music capital of Australia.”

“We’re ensuring our live music scene takes centre stage, while supporting jobs in this important part of our $41 billion creative economy.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant

“The Bellarine is a hub for live music, with iconic venues and festivals lighting up across the peninsula and this investment will help keep that local energy alive, while supporting local artists and businesses.”