January 12th, 2022Morrison Government delivering for regional arts and entertainment
As Australia’s arts and entertainment sector continues to recover from COVID-19, two arts organisations in Ballarat have been awarded a share of more than $19.5 million, under the sixth batch of grants from the Morrison Government’s $200 million Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund.
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the $19.5 million that will flow to the latest recipients of the RISE Fund is supporting nearly 21,000 jobs in more than 600 locations, more than half of which are located in regional and remote Australia.
“The Morrison Government’s objective, in providing this record level of funding for arts and entertainment, is that as the vaccine rollout continues at a strong pace and states and territories open up, arts companies, promoters and festivals are ready to go,” Minister Fletcher said.
“This is an important stage in the resurgence of Australia’s arts and entertainment sector, with this targeted RISE funding providing an opportunity for venues to reopen to audiences; curtains to rise; and performers to come back on stage to a welcoming roar of applause.”
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the funding will provide critical support for local arts organisations and assist local communities and economies to restart from the pandemic.
“I am pleased to announce that Regional Touring Ballarat has received $490,000 to support its 2022 Red Hot Summer Tour to bring back 30 outdoor live music events to seven regional communities across Australia. I congratulate proprietor Dwyane McDonald who’s business was facing enormous uncertainty after such a difficult 18 months.”
“The Ballarat International Foto Biennale has also received $117,000 to extend this year’s program to January 2022 following lockdowns.
“The Morrison Government’s $200 million RISE Program is providing vital support to the arts and entertainment industry to supports its recovery from the pandemic. I am so delighted that two Ballarat based organisations are being so well supported.”
The Morrison Government has now allocated more than $179 million of the $200 million RISE Fund, creating 190,000+ job opportunities and expanding cultural and creative experiences for audiences across Australia.
