Applications Open For 2017 Victorian 'Good Music Neighbours' Venue Grant Program

The Victorian state government's Good Music Neighbours grant program has returned in 2017 following last year's successful inaugural round, providing live music venues with the opportunity to nab up to $25,000 in matched funding to improve the sound management capabilities of their premises.

The initiative opened applications last week for venue owners and operators who support best-practice management in their venues, in line with the program's planning schedule. Successful applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have a commitment to staging live music performances and that their venue has a pressing need for the funding assistance.

Good Music Neighbours forms part of the Andrews Labor government's $22 million Music Works program, designed to strengthen and support the state's vibrant contemporary music sector. Previous recipients include Bakehouse Studios, the Corner Hotel, The Tote, The Prince Bandroom, Yah Yah's and more, with the first round of grants totalling $279,897 across 26 Victorian venues.

"Live music is part of the DNA of our state and we are strengthening and supporting the industry at every level, from the artists and music organisations, to managers, promoters and venues," Creative Industries Minister Martin Foley said in a statement.

"Our state has a strong network of live music venues, with Melbourne home to more venues per capita than anywhere else in the world; this is worth supporting and protecting."

"Investing in our music venues and making them the best they can be means more jobs for musicians and music industry personnel, a more sustainable industry, and more music for us all," he said.

Potential management strategies include seeking input from acoustic consultants or sound technicians as well as developing new designs and soundproofing measures.

Applications are open now for activity commencing from 16 August this year, and close at 5pm on Wednesday 7 June.

See Creative Victoria's website for more information.