Vic Live Music Scene's Road To Recovery Continues With More Funding For Artists & Venues

Victoria's road to recovery from the COVID pandemic has been given another boost, with confirmation today that music venues, artists, businesses and workers will share in almost $8 million in funding. 

Minister for Creative Industries Danny Pearson and Member for Albert Park Martin Foley announced the news today at the Espy Hotel the news, with the iconic St Kilda venue to share in grants alongside Cherry Bar, Revolver Upstairs and Section 8, as well as regional venues including Geelong’s Barwon Club Hotel, Hepburn’s Palais, Torquay Hotel, the Guilford Hotel and Bendigo’s Golden Vine Hotel.

Meanwhile, over 130 local music businesses and artists will receive funding, including indie promoter Penny Drop’s 10-day series at Malthouse Outdoor.

The grants come in support of the Andrews Labor Government's Victorian Music Industry Recovery Program which aims to "support businesses and venues to make events COVIDSafe, kick start the creation of new music, and deliver state-wide tours, business development opportunities and digital initiatives right across Victoria".

“Our music industry creates and supports thousands of jobs – injecting millions into our economy," Pearson said.

"The programs will revive our music culture by supporting local businesses and workers, so they can continue to do what they do best."

Foley added, "This suite of funding will not only see revered venues like St Kilda’s iconic Espy become gig ready, it will also pave the way for a long list of venues, music businesses and artists to return to work in COVIDSafe ways.”

Check out all of the funding recipients here.