The nation’s largest music industry body, APRA AMCOS, which represents the very best and brightest songwriters, composers and music publishers from across Australasia commends the Victorian Government investment to propel live music experiences for audiences across the state with the announcement of a $10 million Victorian Gig Fund program.
“This investment to support 10,000 live music gigs and festivals across Victoria is recognition of the indispensable role that live music plays in enriching our cultural fabric, fostering community cohesion, and driving economic growth,” said Dean Ormston, APRA AMCOS Chief Executive.
"This $10 million from the Victorian Government represents a significant opportunity to reignite the spirit of live music and festivals, bring communities together, and showcase the immense talent that Victoria has to offer.
“This funding reflects a strategic commitment to bolstering the resilience and sustainability of the music industry, particularly in the wake of the unprecedented challenges posed by the global pandemic. By investing in live music and festivals, the Victorian Government is laying a solid groundwork for the sector’s recovery and long-term viability.
"This commitment follows the announcement by Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks in February of a Victorian Government’s investment of $2 million in the high school songwriting program, SongMakers.
“These combined announcements show the Victorian Government is dedicated to not only nurturing emerging musical talent but also securing the platform to showcase great local music and fostering a thriving creative economy.
"It underscores the indispensable role of collaboration between the public and private sectors in growing a robust music ecosystem that benefits both our cultural landscape and our economy.
"APRA AMCOS looks forward to supporting the work of the Victorian Government and delivery partner Music Victoria to foster a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable live music and festival sector for the benefit of artists, venues and communities across the state."