The grants will aid artists and creative organisations during the coronavirus shutdowns.
Last night, a Special Council meeting decided on the release of 500 grants worth up to $4,000 for small arts organisations and individual artists.
The grants will help artists develop new work, allow them to present their works or performances digitally, and provide support during the current coronavirus crisis.
“The arts sector was one of the first to experience cancellations and lost opportunities, and many artists and workers in the sector are suffering. Despite this, the breadth of creative talent in Melbourne remains, and we want to support artists and small arts organisations to continue their important work,” Councillor Rohan Leppert said.
“Whether it’s finding new ways to present works online, or whether it’s using the months ahead as time to focus on the development of new works, we want to support artists to continue working and keep Melbourne’s remarkable creative community strong,” he added.
In addition to releasing $2 million for the grant program, the Lord Mayor Sally Capp has also called on the philanthropic community to support the arts sector.
“The arts sector is intrinsically linked to Melbourne’s brand and supports jobs in our night time economy and our hospitality industries. So when artists don’t have work, our entire city suffers,” said the Lord Mayor.
Applications for grants are now open.
