The live music scene in NSW is set to receive a boost through a new funding initiative announced today (14 January) aimed at increasing the number of fit-for-purpose live music venues across the state and supporting them to be better equipped to enhance the audience experience.

The funding forms part of the NSW government’s Contemporary Music Strategy, a response to a two-decade decline in the state’s live music sector and the significant reduction in the number of venues. In 2018, a NSW parliamentary inquiry heard 176 venues had closed state-wide since 2014.

Photo @ Patrick Black/Pexels

Through the Venue Upgrade Grants, fans of live music can look forward to better sound, lighting and visuals and more accessible music venues. Venue Upgrade Grants can be spent on expert advice, as well as new equipment and infrastructure. Funding will target improvements in soundproofing, ventilation, audio visual technology, accessibility, production equipment and energy efficiency.

Venues demonstrating a commitment to increasing live music programming may apply for grants of up to $20,000 to spend on advice from consultants and experts to create fit-for-purpose...