The Victorian state government has announced its latest support package for the local music industry, with multiple funding streams opening this week for artists, venues and industry professionals.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks revealed the initiatives at Yarraville’s Kindred Studios, including the establishment of a new Victorian Music Industry Advisory Council alongside fresh rounds of the Music Works and Victorian Gig Fund grants.
The announcement builds on nearly a decade of government investment in the Victorian music sector, with the Music Works program alone contributing almost $13 million across more than 850 projects since 2015.
New music industry support
- Victorian Music Industry Advisory Council launches
- Music Works grants: Applications now open
- Victorian Gig Fund: Applications open January 30, 2025
- Previous funding: $1 million supporting 92 projects and 600+ professionals
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The Music Works program continues to provide career-building opportunities for local artists, having previously supported successful acts like Amyl and the Sniffers, Alice Ivy, Alex Lahey and KAIIT. The grants cover various aspects of career development, from recording and touring to marketing and professional development initiatives.
Regional and outer-metropolitan venues are set to benefit from the next round of the 10,000 Gigs: Victorian Gig Fund, with venues able to apply for up to $11,000 to host up to 20 paid performances by Victorian artists. The first round has already facilitated nearly 1,000 local performances.
The newly appointed Victorian Music Industry Advisory Council, comprising 14 members from across the sector, will be chaired by Concord Australia Managing Director and APRA AMCOS board member Jaime Gough. The council brings together expertise from various industry segments, including artists, venue operators, promoters, publishers, and managers.
“We’re supporting Victorian artists and venues to thrive, creating more opportunities for creative projects, live gigs, and local jobs while strengthening our state’s renowned music industry,” Brooks said.
“As well as backing local artists, venues and events, I look forward to working with the new Victorian Music Industry Advisory Council to ensure that Victoria remains the beating heart of Australian music.”
Member for Footscray Katie Hall emphasised the role of local venues in creative communities. “Iconic venues like Kindred Studios are at the centre of our creative communities. The 10,000 gigs initiative showcases Victoria’s vibrant music scene, supporting local artists and venues – bringing more jobs, more gigs, and more fun to communities across the state.”
“I’m honoured to be selected to Chair the Victorian Music Industry Advisory Council,” Gough said. “I look forward to working with fellow council members to provide sound advice to government at a pivotal time for the Victorian music industry.”
Further information about these initiatives and the full list of Victorian Music Industry Advisory Council members can be found here.
