NSW Gov Launches Grant To Help Venues Host More Live Performances

Grants of up to $80,000 are up for grabs to help hospitality venues across the state host more live performances.

The $2.5 million Live Performance Venue Grant program will support small to medium venues looking to stage live performance or significantly increase their current offering by providing funding for staging and sound equipment, paying performers and costs related to marketing and promotion.

The program aims to increase the number of venues hosting live performances, increase the number and diversity of performances and to create employment opportunities for artists, performers and people working in the hospitality industry.

This is the first time the Live Performance Venue Grant Program will be open to venues across the state with eligible venues able to apply for grant amounts between $15,000 and $80,000. 

“There’s a time and place to relax on the couch in surround sound or to put on your headphones on the way to work. But nothing beats being at the gig live and connecting with mates,” said 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues.

“Live performance takes many forms and here in NSW we are home to an array of talented performers offering live music, theatre, comedy, dance and more.”

State effort to expand live music and night time economy

More than 50 venues across Greater Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong received the first round of grants, with Ash Bailey, owner of Bar Yuki in Milton on the South Coast, using the funding to bring in a PA system, backlighting, and drapes for additional sound protection.

“Growing up here in Milton, there wasn’t always a lot to do but we have created a place in this beautiful community – that we are so lucky to live in – which gives people a place to go and enjoy music and a dance,” she said.

 “We are really grateful for this support and being able to combine our love of hospitality and live music. We couldn’t have done this without the support of the NSW Government.”

The grants are part of the government’s efforts to expand and diversify the state’s nightlife, alongside other initiatives such as the Purple Flag program, which recognises night-time precincts that are safe, diverse, and vibrant for the public, helping to create a safer environment for women and gender diverse people.

The Minns government is also looking to boost the live music industry, and earlier this year announced $9.3 million to support touring, studio recording, industry development, and promotions for home grown artists.

The funding is a part of the 10 year Contemporary Music Strategy, working to repair damage caused by the former Liberal government’s lockout and overregulation policies.

The support has delivered immense success to Australia’s blooming music industry by opening new opportunities to perform, accessibility to industry knowledge and tools, recording and venue grants and establishing New South Wales first government backed contemporary music agency.