Melbourne's Port Phillip Council Unveils Lockdown Assistance Scheme For Local Venues

A new Government funded initiative for local venues in the Port Phillip area of Melbourne is set to come into action, with affected venues and artists able to apply for weekly grants until the end of 2021.

Funded by the accumulated savings from the St Kilda Festival - which was abruptly cancelled for this year due to COVID concerns - the Please Don't Stop The Music scheme allows venues to apply to receive up to $5,000 weekly as compensation for lost business due to the current lockdowns.

The initiative will also set up a brand new database for musicians in the applicable area, with the Locals Playing Locals database offering a convenient contact book for venues looking to communicate with local artists.

“Live music is a massive part of our city, whether it’s iconic venues, amazing artists and well-loved events,” said Port Phillip Mayor Louise Crawford. 

"Lockdowns have taken a huge toll on the live music industry – as well as the sectors it benefits such as hospitality. We’re doing what we can through our LMAP to make a real difference at this incredibly challenging time. We’re also continuing our efforts to become the first Victorian council to develop live music precincts to encourage live music while protecting amenity.”

Resident of Port Phillip and Pierce Brothers member Pat Pierce also threw his support behind the initiative, adding, "The lockdowns are absolutely necessary, but this time around it’s really starting to sting now for us and other musos I talk with. Live music is the voice of this town and it’s important for people to be able to start seeing the live talent when they can. The Council's LMAP will help venues and musos by providing some certainty and support."

To read more on the eligibility criteria or to register as a musician for the Locals Playing Locals database, head to the official website here.