The Morrison Government is set to invest more than $3.6million in two upcoming arts touring grant programs – Playing Australia: Regional Performing Arts Touring Fund and the Contemporary Music Touring Program.
Both programs will support up to 30 projects in the upcoming funding round to bring contemporary music, theatre and dance to 268 unique locations across the nation, with a focus on performances in regional and remote communities.
Up to $50,000 per grant will be dedicated to the Contemporary Music Touring Program, supporting “national touring activity undertaken by Australian musicians performing original contemporary music”.
There is no set limit on the amount that can be requested for the Playing Australia: Regional Performing Arts Touring Fund.
Both programs account for “additional costs which may be required for the safe delivery of tours”, as well as “ongoing financial implications of COVID-19”. The Playing Australia grant program also accounts for “potential for state border closures and varying conditions between states and regions”.
Applications for both programs are open now, with a closing date on March 2, 3pm AEDT. Grant applications are intended for projects commencing after June 1 this year.
For more information about more available grant programs, visit Australia Council’s website.
Communications Minister Paul Fletcher said the grant programs “highlight the Government’s commitment to supporting the growth of a national arts sector accessible to all Australians”.
“Live performance and touring are vital to the ongoing sustainability and vibrancy of Australian arts,” Fletcher said.
“The projects supported in this latest funding round will provide new opportunities for contemporary musicians and performers to resume performing and touring as we emerge from COVID-19, and will allow them to engage with audiences across Australia.”