Musicians in Ballarat looking to amp up their latest projects are being urged to get their applications in for the latest round of the Andrews Government’s Music Works program.

Labor MP, Juliana Addison, said Ballarat’s vibrant music scene plays an important role in Victoria’s standing as Australia’s music heartland.

The Music Works Major Funding program is open to professional musicians and bands, music organisations, managers, technicians and venues working in all contemporary music genres and at all career stages.

Grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 are available for individuals and up to $75,000 for groups and organisations.

The program supports projects in three categories:

• Creating content: recording of new original works, as well as digital and audio-visual content such as music videos, podcasts, web content or other promotional content
• Building capacity: professional development activities such as attending masterclasses, mentoring and activities that help to strengthen your music business, and
• Connecting to markets: activities that will bring Victorian music to new audiences. This could range from tours to festivals, events and programs that help practitioners to build their audiences or activities that address barriers for music makers or audiences.

Past Music Works rounds have supported a diverse range of projects – from musicians recording their first album through to programs that have supported next generation talent and support for established bands to attend global showcases or tours.

Ms Addison said the Music Works program presents exciting opportunities for our local music industry to reach new audiences and build their music businesses with support from the Andrews Government.

“Ballarat is home to a community of wonderful musicians at all career stages and supports our thriving cultural scene. I encourage you to find out more about the Music Works program and take your music to the next level,” Ms Addison said.

Applications are open until 5pm, Thursday 6 February 2020 and projects can commence from 1 June 2020.

For program details or to apply, go to creative.vic.gov.au/musicworks