Indigenous Contemporary Music Program grants now open

Joint Media Release

The Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP - Minister for Indigenous Australians

The Hon Paul Fletcher MP - Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts

Applications are now open for the latest grant round of the Morrison Government’s Indigenous Contemporary Music Program, aimed at increasing development opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians and bands.

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the open competitive grant round will provide support for sustainable economic pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians and bands.

“Through the first two rounds of this important grants program, we have provided more than $1.1 million of vital support to for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians and bands, including support for the National Indigenous Music Awards to be presented virtually during the pandemic,” Minister Fletcher said.

“I encourage Indigenous organisations to apply for these grants, which provide industry-based training in areas such as song writing, recording, performance and business skills - providing opportunities and skills to develop ongoing income and employment pathways in the music industry.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP, said the program shines a light on the talents and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians and bands.

“Indigenous contemporary music reflects the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and this culturally significant program provides a pathway to support our emerging and talented musicians to preserve our cultural heritage for generations to come,” Minister Wyatt said.

“Importantly, through this program, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians and bands also build a strong sense of cultural identity, pride and wellbeing, contributing to resilient and empowered communities across Australia.”

The Indigenous Contemporary Music Program is a $2 million program providing funding over four years and is one of five measures under the $30.9 million Australian Music Industry Package announced in the 2019-20 Budget.

Applications for this round of Indigenous Contemporary Music Program close at 11.59pm on 31 January 2022. To apply for the funding visit: www.arts.gov.au/funding-and-support/indigenous-contemporary-music