Victoria's struggling creative industry is to receive a $15 million injection from the state government to support it through the coronavirus lockdown and help plan for reopening.
Creative Industries Minister Danny Pearson says $10 million will be put aside for heavily-affected organisations, including key festivals and performing arts companies.
The money will go towards ensuring these businesses can employ workers and plan a pathway to recovery as restrictions in the state ease in coming weeks and months.
Individual workers and micro-businesses are invited to apply for funding to develop new work, undertake professional development and reach new audiences through a $5 million round of grants.
One-off cash amounts of $5000 will be made available for individuals, including sole traders and freelancers, while grants of up to $10,000 will be open to collectives, micro-organisations and businesses.
"Victoria has a well-earned reputation as the creative state because of our hard-working, talented workforce of artists and creative professionals," Mr Pearson said.
"Our creatives have shown incredible resilience in the face of adversity, still keeping Victorians inspired and entertained, despite the challenges of venue closures, cancellations and lost work.
"This funding package will provide vital assistance to creatives as they prepare to return to work through the roadmap to reopening."
