The Minns Labor Government has announced the delivery of its “biggest ever package of grants” to the NSW music industry. A total of $9.3 million will be given to contemporary bands to support national and international touring, recording, promotion and development.

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These 2024/2025 Sound NSW grants are “designed [to] boost an industry facing significant challenges including unpredictable ticket sales, a retraction in music festivals and competition from international artists on streaming services”.

The funding will be delivered across three different key programs. The Contemporary Music Development grants give $4.2 million to 71 artists to record, collaborate and deliver professional development programs across the sector, divided across the existent Recording, Content and Promotion grant and three new funds: the First Nations Creative and Professional Development fund, the First Nations Industry Development fund and the Industry Development fund.

It also offers $1.8 million through the Touring and Travelling Fund to 144 artists and industry professionals for supporting international acts or undertaking tours, and $3.25 million in the Strategic Funding Program, which will deliver 10 key initiatives including an Australian Women in Music regional delegates program and APRA regional songwriting...