The NSW performing arts and live music sector will be further supported with $85 million in NSW Government funding to provide artists and performers with increased confidence to take their place on centre stage and help kick-start the state's economy.
Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin said the $85 million package included an extension for the Performing Arts Relaunch package and a grant to music charitable organisation, Support Act, to assist individual performing artists.
"As we continue to work through this current phase of the pandemic, the $80 million extension of the Performing Arts Relaunch package will support our wonderful performing arts and live music sector to continue to confidently return to the stage and deliver the vibrant, diverse and inspiring works we have missed so much," Mr Franklin said.
"The additional $5 million grant that we are providing to Support Act as part of this package will help to bridge the gap for assistance for those not eligible under other Government funds and ensure our state's artists are not left behind as a result of disruptions caused by the pandemic."
"The arts are crucial to helping communities across NSW heal, unite, and inspire as well as being essential to our state's economic recovery."
CEO of Support Act Clive Miller said the funding will offer critical relief to support the health and welfare of people working in the music industry.
"The funds announced today will ensure that those hardest hit will be able to access crisis relief through Support Act to help pay the rent, put food on the table, pay urgent medical bills and stay connected with family and community," Mr Miller said.
Chief Executive of Live Performance Australia Evelyn Richardson said the package will benefit the economy and increase the confidence of the sector.
"The arts and entertainment industry are a critical part of rebooting the economy which has once again been acknowledged by the NSW Government. This package will enable companies to keep shows on stage and people in work and provide much needed business confidence to continue investing," Ms Richardson said.
