Queensland Government Allocates $1.6 Million Funding Package For Music In State Budget

The Queensland government—led by Premier Steven Miles—has announced the allocation of a $1.6 million funding package to support the Queensland music industry in today’s state budget.

Today’s news follows the announcement that the government will appoint a dedicated Nighttime Economy Commissioner to help the industry navigate a devastating and historic time. The funding arrives as Brisbane music venues Can You Keep A Secret and It’s Still A Secret have urgently called on the local community for help to avoid closure, and after The Zoo announced its imminent closure after 32 years.

READ MORE: More Venues Share Challenges After Zoo Closure

QMusic has welcomed the new funding package, with CEO Kris Stewart and President Natalie Strijland having recently taken part in conversations with the government about necessary changes to support the state’s music industry.

QMusic, Queensland’s music industry development association, will continue collaborating with the state government to ensure the funding reaches those who need it most and builds a more sustainable future for the Queensland music industry.

In a statement, Stewart said, “QMusic welcomes today’s announcement of a $1.6m funding package by the Miles Government to further support Queensland live music venues and our local musicians, alongside the establishment of a Nighttime Economy Commissioner. This funding package follows direct consultation and conversation by QMusic with the Queensland Government.”

Stewart added, “Over the last three years, we’ve often had the opportunity to speak to both sides of the aisle through events like the Parliamentary Friends of the Music Industry. We’ve always felt there is a genuineness in their passion for the industry and commitment to seeing it succeed.

“Premier Steven Miles and Arts Minister Leanne Enoch have consulted with, and listened to, the industry about the challenges we’re facing. This has led to today’s much-needed support package for Queensland music businesses.”

While stating that the funding package isn’t a “magic bullet fix,” Stewart said that targeting the money to areas of the industry where it can make a real difference offers a “great lifeline” for Queensland venues and artists.

“The work of QMusic President Natalie Strijland and our Board and staff in campaigning for the $7 million COVID venue package in 2021, through to export support, grant packages and the nighttime economy initiative has been tireless and, ultimately, incredibly valuable,” Stewart said. “We thank the Queensland Government for listening to our local music industry.”

On X (formerly known as Twitter), Steven Miles said the state government would deliver the “biggest cost of living relief package in Queensland history.”

You can find out more about the Queensland state budget here.