Victoria has once again shown it’s the best friend Australia’s music lovers have ever had with the launch of Good Music Neighbours, a new grants program to support local music venues undertake sound management and soundproofing projects.
The state is already famous for its Agent of Chance laws, which put the burden of soundproofing a live music venue on any developer looking to move into a neighbourhood with already established venues instead of on the publicans.
As part of the government’s $22 million Music Works initiative, Good Music Neighbours offers matched funding of up to $25,000 to live music venues across the state, which can go to everything from soundproofing to consulting with acoustics specialists.
The program will field application on an annual basis. To be eligible, venues must have a proven commitment to presenting original live music, a need for the works, and will have to match the government’s contribution.
“Even small design changes can make a big difference to how we experience sound. The Good Music Neighbours program will ensure that venues maintain positive relationships with their neighbouring businesses and residents,” said Minister for Planning Richard Wynne.
“Victoria loves live music,” added Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley. “We host three times more live performances than the national average and Melbourne has more live music venues than any other city in the country – making us the undisputed live music capital.”
“Our Music Works package takes a holistic approach to the sector, with programs to support music makers, music industry workers and organisations, and now, venues.” Applications for Good Music Neighbours close 5pm Monday, 13th July 2016.
