Government Set To Axe Sounds Australia Funding
Funding has not been guaranteed past the end of 2016.
Despite proving its significance to the Australian music industry time and again, it has been confirmed that the Turnbull government is set to axe funding for Sounds Australia.
In a Senate Estimates on Wednesday night, it was confirmed that funding for the live music export body has not been guaranteed past the end of this year.
"This government seems determined to attack live music from every angle," Shadow Minister For The Arts, Tony Burke, says.
"Support has dropped off for the live music office, the Australia Council funding has been attacked and visa arrangements look set to cause real damage to the touring and festival circuit.
"Live Music matters, with the advent of streaming Australian artists rely more and more on live performance to be able to remain in the industry. Accessing the international market is essential to making sure Australian music can thrive."
Burke says that Minister For The Arts, Mitch Fifield, must overturn the decision.
"At the exact time we should be turning the volume up for live music, this government is reaching for the off switch. It can be fixed, it must be," he continues.
"All it takes is for the Minister Mitch Fifield to guarantee funding for Sounds Australia for next year and beyond and our live musicians will be able to continue to have the opportunities and support essential for an Australian soundtrack."
The news comes just months after a petition was launched aiming to save Sounds Australia.
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