Another $40m to aid virus-hit arts sector
Dozens of coronavirus-hit Australian arts organisations will share $40 million in federal funding.
Bluesfest, the Adelaide Fringe and Falls Festival are among 82 projects to receive Commonwealth cash.
It’s the fourth batch of finance released from a $200 million entertainment support scheme called RISE.
Arts Minister Paul Fletcher expects the injection to create more than 56,000 jobs.
“RISE has been critical in supporting Australia’s live performance venues and events during an unprecedented time of widespread disruption from the pandemic,” he said on Friday.
Festivals to secure a slice of the pie will spend their money on COVID-safe measures like signage and hand sanitiser.
Bluesfest will use its $2.4 million backing – the biggest share of funding delivered – to reignite the event with an all Australian line-up following two years of coronavirus-induced cancellations.
The federal government has allocated $140 million from the $200 million fund and estimates the program has created more than 145,000 jobs.
-AAP