Newcastle’s live music sector benefits from additional funding

Newcastle’s live music industry is continuing to receive support from the City of Newcastle with a further $20,000 injection - encouraging gigs during the upcoming bumper event month of April.

The second instalment of Live Music Grants follows the success earlier this year, where incentives of up to $500 per event were provided to venues for hosting live acts during the New Annual festival.

Live music events funded by the second-round of the program will take place between 6th and 20th April to coincide with other significant events across the city, including the Rip Curl Newcastle Cup World Tour surfing, Sailfest Regatta, Women’s Rugby 7s, New Run and Newcastle Food Month

City of Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said after a successful initial program, the convergence of multiple events in April was the perfect time to bring live music back to the city.

Lord Mayor Nelmes notes “City of Newcastle is committed to a creating a vibrant city and supporting our cultural sector, and we know live music is key to achieving these goals.

“During the New Annual festival, there were over 40 live music events at 16 venues across Newcastle because of our Live Music Grants, giving a much-needed boost to our home-grown talent and the local hospitality ecosystem needed to nurture the future Trophy Eyes, Muzzy Pep, Silverchair, Screaming Jets, Amy Vee, Raave Tapes, and Gooch Palms.

“Live Music Grants is one of the many City of Newcastle initiatives providing support and promotion of the city’s unique creative scene as part of our commitment to delivering the Live Music Strategy.”

Newcastle Councillor Carol Duncan said April is shaping up to be an exciting month adding “with an influx of visitors set to flock to Newcastle over April, we’re activating the city by helping local venues to host a wide range of live music.

“A vibrant live music scene is vital to ensuring Newcastle continues to develop its bustling arts and culture scene, and provide a lively, diverse and safe night-time economy to benefit the entire community.

“April is going to be an exciting month for the city and we look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to experience the Newcastle difference.”

Live Music Grants applications are now open and close on 22nd March 2021.