$5 million to keep Melbourne Theatre Company on stage

The Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC) will receive $5 million to support its ongoing viability as one of Australia’s leading arts employers, under the Morrison Government’s $50 million COVID-19 Arts Sustainability Fund.

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cites and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said MTC employs around 600 artists and industry professionals, and has produced some of Australia’s well-known stage productions and workshops for more than 60 years.

“The Melbourne Theatre Company is home to some of Australia’s best live storytelling – but under current health orders they cannot hold performances or even rehearse upcoming shows. No performances means no revenue - and that in turn meant MTC’s sustainability was at risk,” Minister Fletcher said.

“The MTC is a systemically important arts company, and its situation closely fits the criteria for the Sustainability Fund.”

“As the vaccine rollout continues at a strong pace, it is important that our arts and entertainment sector will be primed to restart when permitted to do so.”

This latest support is in addition to operational funding the Australian Government continues to provide MTC through the Australia Council, in partnership with the Victorian Government, under the National Performing Arts Partnership Framework.

More than $30 million has now been allocated under the Fund to support 13 leading arts organisations across the country, including the Sydney Theatre Company, Queensland Ballet and Design Tasmania. Over $19 million remains in the Sustainability Fund, which is still open and accepting applications until 31 May 2022, subject to allocation of funds.

The Morrison Government is investing over $1 billion into the arts and creative sector in 2021-22.