Support Act Receives $20 Million Funding Boost Amid Extended Arts Sector Shutdowns

Support Act has received an additional $20 million in funding to help support music industry artists and workers through the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The organisation - which helps get Australian music workers back on their feet following crisis - has announced today that they will receive the funds from the Australian Federal Government to "allow the charity to continue to bring much-needed relief to those in the music industry who have lost work, gigs and their livelihoods due to the ongoing lockdowns and restrictions".

"It’s a difficult time for everyone working in the creative sector at the moment and particularly those working in live performance," said Support Act CEO Clive Miller today. 

"Lockdowns and restrictions are impacting music and performing arts workers around the country, and many are falling through the cracks when it comes to the other Federal and State funds available.

"What’s clear is that the impacts of the Delta variant are going to be felt for quite some months and this additional support from the Government will help to ensure that more people are able to access our crisis relief and mental health and wellbeing services."

READ MORE: Support Act Has Seen A 700% Increase In Crisis Support During COVID-19

Additionally, Support Act will now expand its criteria to now include live performing arts workers including those working in theatre, dance and circus.

Support Act will use the funds to bring on additional support staff, as well as for their COVID-19 Crisis Relief Grants. 

Formerly known as the MusicKeeper/CrewKeeper grants, the COVID-19 Crisis Relief Grants are "valued at $2,000 for individuals and $2,700 for families with dependent children" and "are now available to anyone working professionally in music or the performing arts, provided they meet a set criteria". 

To date, the organisation has shared $10.9m in funding as part of 4,506 Crisis Relief Grants. 

Last year, Miller told The Music that the charity had seen a 700% increase in demand for their services in the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic and the mass shutdown of touring. Read the full story here. 

Applications for the next round will open on 23 August, find out more information at the Support Act website here, and contact the The Wellbeing Helpline, Manager Support Hotline and First Nations Support Line by calling 1800 959 500.