More support for the Indigenous Contemporary Music industry

Eight organisations will share in more than $600,000 in the second round of grants under the $2 million 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 $2 million program is part of the Morrison Government’s Australian Music Industry Package announced in the 2019-20 Budget.

“This round of grants will provide $604,000 to eight organisations in the Indigenous contemporary music sector, supporting opportunities for many talented Indigenous performers across the country,” Minister Fletcher said.

“With the Morrison Government’s support, these organisations will build sustainable professional careers in the Australian and international music industries.”

The program will support a range of opportunities and activities, including a showcase of emerging talent at the 2021 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, an Aunties music program, and support for the National Indigenous Music Awards.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP, said the Indigenous Contemporary Music program is critical to safeguarding our cultural heritage.

“Australia’s unique Indigenous music is engrained in tens of thousands of years of heritage and has an important place in the exchange and survival of Indigenous cultures, which is central to our country’s identity, place and belonging,” Minister Wyatt said.

“With this support, our emerging and talented musicians provide opportunities to express Indigenous heritage — past, present and future — for generations to come.”

To find out more about the Indigenous Contemporary Music program visit:   www.arts.gov.au/what-we-do/performing-arts/contemporary-music