Victoria's youth music program FReeZA rebrands as Amplify, as government reinvigorates decades-long initiative supporting young creatives across the state
Victoria’s youth music program has been revamped with a modern approach and increased funding for community organisations.
The Allan Labor government has rebranded Victoria’s long-running youth music and events program FReeZA as Amplify. The announcement came as Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman met with hundreds of young people and youth workers at Melbourne Recital Centre for The Push’s Amplify Summit.
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Building on nearly three decades of success, Amplify ensures Victoria remains at the forefront of youth music development, creating new opportunities for young people aspiring to work in the industry.
The program now covers additional costs such as transport for young participants and provides remuneration for youth contributors who design and deliver activities, acknowledging their valuable input.
Funding programs across Victoria
For almost 30 years, the Labor government’s FReeZA program has provided young Victorians with access to affordable, alcohol, drug and smoke-free events across the state. The initiative has supported more than 800 grant recipients to deliver over 8,200 events to an audience of 2.3 million young people in the past decade alone.
In the latest funding round, 61 community organisations, local councils and social enterprises received between $45,000 and $120,000 each over the next three years. Recipients include Banyule City Council, which will run Jets Events & Productions and Creative Pathways to support self-expression and employment through events like Battle of the Bands and a Youth Festival.
Mildura Rural City Council has also received funding to provide young people with opportunities in event planning, live music performances, youth radio, and creative showcases across Mildura, Merbein, Red Cliffs and Ouyen.
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“The transition from FReeZA to Amplify marks an exciting chapter, ensuring this program continues to empower young people to organise and deliver live music and cultural events in their local communities,” said Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman.
“Victoria has long been the heart of Australia’s live music scene – and with Amplify, we’re ensuring the next generation of talent has hands on industry experience and opportunities to shape their own creative futures.”
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks added: “By investing in young people and their creativity, we’re not only supporting the next wave of musicians, producers and leaders – we’re also building stronger, more connected communities.”
The Push, Australia’s leading youth music organisation and charity, will continue its partnership with Amplify, providing expert guidance for Victoria’s young creatives. The organisation has a strong track record of cultivating Australian music talent including Killing Heidi, Something for Kate, Silverchair, Baker Boy and Mallrat.
Kate Duncan, Chief Executive Officer of The Push, emphasised the program’s importance: “Now more than ever, we need programs like Amplify to give every young Victorian the opportunity to access live music experiences and build connections with their local communities.”
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