The Prime Minister will reveal details of the government’s plan to support creative industries next month.
Scott Morrison has reportedly met with Minister for the Arts, Paul Fletcher, and representatives from the arts and entertainment sector in order to devise a targeted package for the struggling industry following endless pleas for government support over the past months.
The live performance industry was amongst the first hit by the pandemic and has suffered greatly as a result of social distancing restrictions and bans on mass gatherings. It is also likely to be one of the last sectors to enter a recovery phase.
In addition to contributing $112 billion to Australia’s economy each year, the arts and entertainment industry is integral to the nation’s cultural and social fabric, yet it has been given the cold shoulder by the federal government until now.
The national cabinet is currently deliberating how to best support the industry, with Scott Morrison set to announce a detailed plan in July. The government is considering options including a dedicated grants fund along with other forms of financial assistance to help artists get back on their feet.
With Victoria currently seeing a surge in new COVID-19 cases, plans to ease restrictions have been postponed, causing further fears for the arts and entertainment industry.
Countless live music venues are already in a critical state as a result of the shutdowns, which saw venue owners from across Melbourne and beyond launch the Save Our Scene campaign at the beginning of this month in a desperate plea to the state government.
Here’s hoping the Morrison government has some good news in store next month.
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