Announced yesterday, the Victorian State Budget 2024/25 acknowledged that times are tough for many, with our economy continuing to be challenged by local and international forces, including inflation and cost of living.
In the current climate, we are pleased to see that the Music Works program will continue to be supported – with the Allan Labor Government making a $1 million investment in 2024-25 to back Victoria’s musicians in the face of unprecedented industry challenges.
In addition, we acknowledge the allocation of $6.5 million over four years to support creative festivals and homegrown events. We eagerly anticipate receiving further details regarding this allocation and what it will mean for the music industry.
We're also pleased to see support for small businesses including those in the music industry:
Despite the unresolved challenges faced by live music venues regarding insurance and the discontinuation of the sick leave guarantee, so important for the music industry gig workers (noting the State Govt is calling on the Federal Government to take this over), we remain committed to advocating for these issues and others to the government.
At Music Victoria's core, it is our mission to advocate for a valued, progressive, and equitable Victorian music scene. Music Victoria's 2024/25 advocacy priorities are:
“While this budget doesn’t solve the monumental challenges currently faced by the industry, it is as we expected given the wider economic context. We look forward to informing future Victorian State budgets as part of the next Victorian Creative State strategy, to which so many from all sectors across our industry have already contributed their insights as part of our recent extensive industry stakeholder consultations.” – Fiona Duncan, Deputy Chair, Music Victoria
We encourage further industry contributions to help inform our policy positions. Have your say by filling out this short survey.
Right now, applications are open for the Victorian Gig Fund ($1.27 million available in year 1) and the Live Music Festivals Fund ($900,000 available in year 1) both which are four year programs. Round 1 applications close 17 May 2024. Head to our website for further details.
A live music venue audit is also currently underway, as are consultations with the Department of Planning to enhance land use planning protection of live music venues in Victoria.
Music Victoria is only as strong as its community, and we will continue to serve our diverse and broad-reaching community as meaningfully as possible. Show your strength and solidarity for the live music community and enhance our influence, reach and advocacy by becoming a Music Victoria Member today.
