QMusic Welcomes $1.6M For Queensland Music Businesses in State Budget
We’re proud to say that amongst today’s State Budget announcements, a $1.6 million support package has been announced to support live music venues and musicians across Queensland.
This announcement follows the welcome news that a dedicated Nighttime Economy Commissioner will be appointed by the Queensland Government, to help support venues and festivals who have been navigating many challenging circumstances.
QMusic has been consulting with a wide range of industry leaders in the live music space across the state, to learn what their needs are during this difficult time.
QMusic CEO Kris Stewart and President Natalie Strijland have also been part of ongoing discussions with both the Premier and other members of Parliament and is pleased to see those conversations have produced this valuable result.
“QMusic welcomes today’s announcement of a $1.6m funding package by the Miles Government to further support Queensland live music venues and our local musicians, alongside the establishment of a Nighttime Economy Commissioner. This funding package follows direct consultation and conversation by QMusic with the Queensland Government.
“Over the last three years, we’ve often had the opportunity to speak to both sides of the aisle through events like the Parliamentary Friends of the Music Industry. We’ve always felt there is a genuineness in their passion for the industry and commitment to seeing it succeed.
“Premier Steven Miles and Arts Minister Leanne Enoch have consulted with, and listened to, the industry about the challenges we’re facing. This has led to today’s much-needed support package for Queensland music businesses.
“While it’s not a magic bullet fix, the ability to directly target this $1.6m to where it can make a real impact means it’s a great lifeline for our artists and venues that need it most.
“The work of QMusic President Natalie Strijland and our Board and staff in campaigning for the $7 million COVID venue package in 2021, through to export support, grant packages and the nighttime economy initiative has been tireless and, ultimately, incredibly valuable. We thank the Queensland Government for listening to our local music industry.”
QMusic will continue our conversation and collaboration with the Queensland Government around the $1.6 million support package, to ensure that this essential funding plays a role in the Queensland music industry moving towards a more sustainable future.
