Music Works Grants

The Music Works program supports and invests in the development of Victoria’s contemporary music industry at all levels. It provides support for projects – including new ideas and new approaches – that will support Victoria’s position as a world-leading state for contemporary music.

The program is open to Victorian based contemporary music industry professionals from all genres and career stages. Priority will be given to projects that intend to actively develop and build the sustainability, resilience and commercial capacity of the contemporary music industry and which can be delivered or can easily adapt in the face of changing COVID-19 health restrictions.

This round of Music Works offers funding of between $4,000 to $40,000 for individuals or groups/organisations.

Applications for $20,000 or more must have a minimum 20% of the request in cash co-funding (e.g. generated fees /income and/or applicant cash contribution and/or partnership arrangements such as local government, corporate or philanthropic support.)

While all applicants are encouraged to include access costs within their project budget, those applying under the Deaf and Disabled stream may apply for an additional amount of up to $5,000 on top of the general project costs to cover specific access expenses for Deaf and Disabled participants.

This round supports activities commencing from 1 March 2022 and onwards.

We acknowledge that the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is dynamic. We recommend that you refer to the Victorian government’s dedicated page on coronavirus to keep informed of current restriction levels.

We encourage applicants to consider flexible delivery models and activities that can be adapted swiftly to comply with changing restrictions and to state their contingency plan or flexible model as part of their application.

Please reach out to program staff to discuss options if you have any concerns about your project or activity being impacted by COVID-19.

You will receive a Common Funding Agreement if your application is successful. You must confirm ;your acceptance of the agreement.

The payment schedule and any relevant funding deliverable/milestones will be outlined in the funding agreement.

Once the agreement has been executed (i.e accepted by the recipient and Creative Victoria), and you have satisfied any conditions and provided us with an invoice, then the grant payment will be made.

Applications from First Peoples or First Peoples-led organisations or businesses will be assessed by a First Peoples panel. This embeds Aboriginal self-determination into the assessment process. Applications from non-First Peoples individuals, businesses or organisations that contain First Peoples content may also be reviewed by a First Peoples panel to ensure best practice cultural protocols are reflected.

Applications by Victorian Deaf and Disabled music industry professionals or music industry businesses or organisations will be assessed by an assessment panel of music industry peers with lived experience of Deafness and Disability. Applications that are not Deaf and Disabled led but involve key participants who identify as Deaf and Disabled may also elect to be assessed under this stream

The program is open to Victorian based contemporary music industry professionals from all genres and career stages. This includes artists/bands, managers, promoters, labels and other music industry businesses and organisations.

For the purpose of this program, Victorian contemporary music is defined as music that is currently being written, recorded and performed by Victorians. Its genres would include (but are not limited to) blues, country, electronic/dance, experimental, folk, funk, hip hop, jazz, metal, pop, rock and roots and other contemporary genres.

For the purpose of this funding program, Victoria’s contemporary music industry is defined as:

• Victorian musicians creating music now, with a clear intention and strategy to connect with audiences.
• Victorian individuals, organisations and businesses surrounding these musicians which make up the industry in which they operate.

Applicants who have applied to the Creative Ventures Program are not eligible to apply for Music Works for the same project or activity.

No. Demand for Creative Victoria project funding is high, and this will be an extremely competitive program to enter. Applicants must not assume they will be successful or enter into commitments based on that assumption before receiving formal notification of the outcome of their funding. Nor should applicants assume that if they are successful once, they will be successful again in the future.

This program’s aim is not to provide business support. LaunchVic’s website has information and resources for start-ups. For business support, please refer to Business Victoria’s website.

Only one application can be submitted per applicant. Auspicing organisations can submit multiple applications on behalf of others.

We acknowledge that the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is dynamic. We recommend that you refer to the Victorian government’s dedicated website on coronavirus to keep informed of current restriction levels. Priority will be given to activities which can be delivered in a COVIDSafe way in 2022 or can be adapted at short notice in the face of changing health restrictions.

Opportunities to tour internationally remain uncertain due to restrictions introduced in response to COVID-19.

Applications for international touring activity will be accepted however priority will be given to activities which can be delivered in a COVIDSafe way or can be easily adapted in the face of changing health restrictions. Applicants should ensure that any proposed international activities demonstrate compliance with current Commonwealth and Victorian public health measures to slow the spread of coronavirus.

Only one application per applicant or organisation will be accepted. One individual is not able to act as the primary contact for two separate applications. This applies to both individual and group projects.

Creative Victoria will not consider funding for activity or costs incurred prior to 1 March 2022. You should not enter into any arrangements or make any payments on the assumption you will receive support for activity prior to this date.

Music Works will from time to time allow grant budgets to include payment to non-Victorian services when the overall outcome of the project benefits a Victorian artist or industry individual or organisation as per the assessment guidelines.

If you don’t have an ABN or you are not sure that you will have the ability to manage the paperwork or requirements associated with a Creative Victoria grant, an organisation or business can submit the application on your behalf. If your application is successful, this party will receive the funding and will be responsible for managing the funds and reporting to Creative Victoria on your behalf. An auspice organisation can apply to this program on behalf of multiple people/projects.

For this program, any legally constituted organisation may act as an auspice.

In the application, you will be asked to provide details of the auspicing organisation, such as the organisation’s legal name, ABN and contact details.

Yes, you can apply to this program. However, it cannot be for the same project/activity.

If you are an artist manager applying on behalf of an artist and it is intended that you will receive the funds and manage the grant for the artist (with the artist’s consent), you must auspice the application. If you are not legally constituted and thus not eligible to auspice the application, you must ensure the ABN details provided in the application are the artist’s, not your own.

One of the key guiding principles of the Creative State 2025 is First Peoples First. We are committed to the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the 11 guiding principles of Aboriginal Self-Determination as identified in the Victorian Aboriginal Affairs Framework 2018-23.

Applicants must follow correct protocols when working with First Peoples’ artists, content and/or communities. Please refer to Australia Council’s Protocols For Using First Nations Cultural And Intellectual Property In The Arts. In particular, the project checklist (pp. 168-172) can be used as a resource to guide considerations when engaging with First People’s content, creatives/artists and cultural heritage.

For the protection of First Peoples’ arts practice from misappropriation, moral and copyright infringement, appropriate documentation must be submitted if you propose to work with First Peoples’ stories/cultural material that is not your own, such as letters of confirmation from the First Peoples you are working with and protocols you will put in place to ensure cultural safety.

Applications from non-First Peoples applicants that contain First Peoples content may also be reviewed by a First Peoples panel. Activity that does not follow or demonstrate correct protocols will not be supported.

It may affect the payments that you are receiving. Please check with Centrelink or your contact person at NDIS. You may want to consider being auspiced by an organisation.

No. The co-funding requirement does not need to be fully confirmed at the point of application. You will need to indicate in the application budget section how much of your income is confirmed or unconfirmed.

If your application is successful and before we release payment to you, we may ask for confirmation and updates on your budget, including the status of the co-funding requirement. The cash co-funding may be covered through:

• the generated fees/income/ticket sales you earn
• other applicant cash contribution (ie. your organisation’s own cash investment)
• grants sourced from other funding bodies (eg. other government, philanthropic bodies, foundations)
• corporate or private cash sponsorship.

You should also consider your budget contingency in your application. For example, what is your financial back up plan if you are unable to source the cash co-funding through other grants.

We strongly encourage applicants to consider inclusive ways of working and ensuring access to all audiences. Funding can be used to cover any access costs that help remove barriers for participants involved in your activity. You can also use the funding to make your activity accessible to a wider audience.

Applicants under the Deaf and Disabled Stream (Stream 2) may also apply for an additional amount of up to $5,000 on top of their general project costs to cover specific access expenses that will help reduce barriers for deaf and disabled artists/industry workers involved in the project.

You should provide budget notes about any access costs that are included in your application budget.

Examples of Access costs

This is not an exhaustive list as it is dependent on type of activity and individual:

• Access consultant - for support in designing an accessible space/event
• Access/disability support workers
• Assistive listening devices, audio loops etc
• Audio description
• Auslan interpreters
• Blind or low vision assistance
• Braille in labelling, marketing, signage at venue, etc
• Captioning services (open/closed)
• Coordinate or develop a support program like Bandmates Victoria – Inclusive Arts Network
• Disability concession pricing or subsidised ticket prices
• Disability liaison person – for meeting and/or engaging with Deaf and/or Disabled people to be responsive to their access needs
• Ergonomic equipment and/or an ergonomic consultant
• Guide dog access
• Hiring access aids/equipment
• Plain English marketing material – short, simple sentences with pictures
• Setting up a quiet or sensory space or session – to avoid sensory overload or to provide sensory input to meet a sensory need
• Staff and volunteer training e.g. disability awareness, communication, etc
• Therapy – incl. counselling, physio, occupational therapy, etc
• Updating website and booking system to a more accessible user interface.

Access costs vary depending on the project and services required. Please get in touch with an Access Consultant. An Inclusive Practice Guide and a list of organisations in Victoria offering support to Deaf and Disabled people can be found on Arts Access Victoria’s website.

Any relevant funding deliverable/milestone will be outlined in the funding agreement.

You will be required to provide regular updates about your funded activity, including information about the activity budget and activity plan.

At the end of your funded period, you must submit an acquittal which provides information about the outcomes of your funding.

During and after your funded period, you are required to participate in a program evaluation. You may be asked to provide information about your funded activity and any longer-term outcomes that may inform the evaluation of the Music Works program

After the round closes, submitted applications go through an eligibility and due diligence check. External assessors are then allocated applications and given a period to review them.

Recommendations are compiled and provided to the Minister for Creative Industries for final approval. We are working as fast as possible to assess programs currently. All applicants will be advised on the outcome of their application approximately 12 weeks from the closing date.

We acknowledge that in getting funding right, we need to make sure there is diversity in the process from inception to delivery.

Creative Victoria is working with industry representatives to ensure there is diverse representation on assessment panels for this program.

First Peoples applicants or First Peoples businesses or organisations applying under any stream will be assessed through a First- Peoples-led assessment process. Deaf and Disabled applicants or businesses or organisations may also elect to be assessed by a panel of assessors with lived experience of deafness and disability.

We will also be reaching out to a broad range of organisations to promote the program and to encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds including applicants who are First Peoples, Deaf and Disabled, women, LGBTIQ+ and from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Agung Mango, BURNSIDE HEIGHTS, $10,600
For hip hop artist Agung Mango to record and release his debut solo EP accompanied by a marketing and publicity plan.

Alicia Egan, BRUNSWICK, $18,500
To record, produce and release a new album by Alanna and Alicia, including the creation of visual content, video clips and a filmed launch event.

Amos Roach, THORNBURY, $19,999
To record and promote music by Amos, featuring didgeridoo, traditional Kulin Nations and contemporary songs, and the creation of a film narrative for two of the recordings.

Archie Roach Foundation LTD, KILLARNEY, $53,000
To support the recording and release of songs written through the first phase of the Singing Our Futures Music Mentoring Program, a First Nations emerging artists music mentoring program, by The Archie Roach Foundation in partnership with Culture is Life and with support from The Barpirdhilla Foundation.

Arts Access Victoria on behalf of Cameron Murphy, GLEN IRIS, $19,991
To produce and release a new album by Cam Camino, including promotion and delivery of online performances.

Arts Access Victoria on behalf of Glen Kennedy, METCALFE, $32,775
To record, mix and master Effortless Bilingual, a collection of 40 recordings of Chinese Mandarin spoken word set to a variety of styles of music. The recording aims to assist in Mandarin language learning.

Audrey Boyle, RICHMOND, $14,500
To record, mix and master the debut solo album by Audrey Powne, including the creation of album artwork and development of video assets for promotion.

Auspicious Arts Projects Inc. on behalf of Carolyn Schofield, NORTHCOTE, $15,665
Creative development, recording and production of the second album of solo synthesiser music by Fia Fiell, to be released with a music video and extended live performance video in collaboration with media artist Don Gray.

BATTS, RINGWOOD NORTH, $15,500
To record and release the sophomore album by Melbourne musician, BATTS.

Carla dal Forno, CASTLEMAINE, $11,394
To record, mix and master a third solo album.

C Kikos & M Syawish, CARLTON, $10,040
The writing, release and marketing of Sleep D's Sophomore LP to be released digitally and on vinyl. The release will be supported by the creation of a music video and promotional photographs.

Client Liaison, FITZROY NORTH, $35,000
Presentation of a livestreamed showcase, to promote the release of Client Liaison’s second album.

COOKII, BRUNSWICK, $15,000
Creative development, mixing, mastering and release of a new mixtape by cookii.

Corner Group (Ticketscout Pty Ltd), RICHMOND, $5,000
Support for a professional development program that will provide training and industry networking opportunities that will enable staff to adapt to the changing landscape of the industry.

Daen Sansbury-Smith, RESERVOIR, $26,500
Production of a soundtrack album to support Daen Sansbury-Smith's a short film series that explores the intergenerational transfer of knowledge and responsibility within contemporary Aboriginal music.

Damon Paraha, MANOR LAKES, $20,850
For the development of 12 music videos to support the album, The Nomadic, by Nomad.

Dandelion Wine, KINGSVILLE, $14,920
To compose, record and release an album incorporating elements of traditional medieval writing and melodies, to be released with a publicity campaign across Australia and Europe.

Ellpee Pty Ltd, MELBOURNE, $34,800
Creative development of a suite of marketing material to support the new album by Vika and Linda, including music videos, a mini-documentary, promotional photography and an online album launch event.

Feign Jima, PRESTON, $5,000
To record, mix, master and promote a five-track EP.

FLOW GTG PTY LTD, FOOTSCRAY, 15,300
To support the marketing of the second edition of FLOW, an all-ages alternate one-day music event held at Footscray Community Arts Centre.

Gracie Music PTY LTD, ALPHINGTON, $37,920
To record, mix and master Angie McMahon’s second album.

IJALE - Jerry Agbinya, MERNDA, $14,245
Creative development of a music video to accompany a mixtape by IJALE.

Jannah Quill, RICHMOND, $19,129
Creative development, recording and release of Jannah’s debut studio album.

Joel Ma, FITZROY NORTH, $6,500
To develop digital assets and branding and to undertake international marketing strategy consultations to support the launch of new band, Go Sky.

Jonnine Standish, KALLISTA, $9,500
To produce, mix and master the sophomore LP by Jonnine.

Laila Sakini, BELGRAVE SOUTH, $11,770
To write, record, mix, master and release the sophomore album by Laila Sakina, and to develop promotional material for the release package.

LAMINE SONKO, RESERVOIR, $24,920
Creative development, recording and production of Lamine Sonko’s debut solo album, including digital release, video production and the promotion of a single.

Look Out Kid Pty Ltd, COLLINGWOOD, $12,000
To support Look Out Kid to work with a US-based project manager for six months to assist in the global operations of the company. The period will see the Look Out Kid team coordinating major international projects for its artist roster, including the release of Courtney Barnett’s fourth studio album and the writing and recording of Briggs’s third studio album.

Luke Alessi, ALPHINGTON, $6,000
Support for a campaign that will build Luke’s profile in Europe and the UK using innovative digital marketing strategies and visual content.

Moyne Shire Council, PORT FAIRY, $5,950
To support the presentation of The Moyne Sessions — The Business of Music, professional development and capacity building masterclasses for young contemporary artists from South-West Victoria.

Nadeah Miranda, SANDRINGHAM, $18,000
To record, produce and release a new album of duets, featuring all Victorian artists, with a digital marketing campaign to support the release.

Naretha Williams, RESERVOIR, $23,111
Recording, production and manufacture of a 12-track vocal album by The Killer Quo, and the production and vinyl manufacture of a six-track electronic solo album by Naretha Williams.

Phoebe Cockburn, ABBOTSFORD, $20,000
Creative development, recording, mixing and mastering of the debut solo album by Phoebe Go, including the production of visual assets.

Quivers, BALACLAVA, $31,550
To record, mix and master Quivers’ third album.

Ravens Nest Consulting Pty Ltd, SEAFORD, $10,000
Development of a new edition of Welcome to the Jungle - Navigating the Music Business in Australia, a free e-book that reflects the vastly changed landscape of the Victorian, Australian and global music industry post COVID-19, with accompanying podcasts featuring interviews with predominantly Victorian music businesses.

Siobhan McGinnity, COBURG, $29,029
To record and release the second EP by Magnets.

Sophia Brous, COBURG, $16,480
To record, mix and master an album of contemporary music by an ensemble of Victorian musicians.

Spirit level, MERRICKS BEACH, $7,750
To support Spirit Level, a Melbourne-based artist-run initiative to engage a publicist in Europe and the United Kingdom to support the international promotion of new releases by its roster of artists.

Stephanie Crase, NORTHCOTE, $6,000
To record, mix and master the fourth album by Summer Flake.

Tamil Rogeon, FITZROY, $10,000
To write, record, mix and release a new album.

The Boss Experience Agency Pty Ltd, HAMPTON, $30,345
Creative development, distribution and marketing of a podcast offering in-depth profiles of the new generation of Australian DIY artists, published by independent Victorian podcast publisher Litmus Media.

Tyler Millott, EAGLEMONT, $8,800
To mix, master and promote a self-produced, self-titled debut LP by Melbourne based alternative rock artist The Terrifying Lows.

William Cooper, FLEMINGTON, $15,200
To record, mix, master and release the third full length album by Diipma, including the creation of promotional photographs, artwork and video clips.

Zen Arcade, NORTH MELBOURNE, $81,000
Support for a 12-month program with quarterly online songwriting camps for Victorian and international songwriters, and support for Songs Festival, a celebration of the art and craft of songs and songwriting which will be held across multiple venues in Melbourne.

Music Works Major Funding round

3CR Community Radio, Fitzroy, $9,874

Eight audio-engineering masterclasses for female and non-gender-conforming sound technicians to help promote diversity in the music industry.

Parvyn Bennett, Mont Albert North, $8,750

For vocalist Parvyn Singh to record, mix and master her debut solo album, blending contemporary electronica and RnB with classical North Indian Raga and Punjabi Bhangra.

Big Yawn, Fitzroy North, $10,850

Melbourne-based live electronic band Big Yawn to record, mix and master their second LP, and develop a PR and advertising campaign to support the LP’s release.

Julia Jacklin, Collingwood, $20,000

To record and produce the third studio album, and associated artwork, by Julia Jacklin.

Hannah Cameron, Fitzroy North, $10,806

To record, produce, release and promote the third album by folk artist Hannah Cameron.

Ryan Downey, Kingsville, $8,390

To mix, master and internationally release the second album of Ryan Downey

Husky Gawenda, St Kilda, $7,500

To support folk musician Husky Gawenda to record his first solo album, a compilation of thirteen songs telling the story of two lovers.

Eilish Gilligan, Wattle Glen, $10,000

To record, release and promote pop artist Eilish Gilligan’s debut EP.

Girly Bits Pty Ltd, Melbourne, $20,000

For musician Ali Barter to record her third album, drawing inspiration from contemporary UK music.

George Ian Hewitt, North Melbourne, $14,339

Electronic musician George Hewitt, under moniker Cleopold, to record, produce and promote his debut album.

Corin Ileto, Preston, $10,000

Electronic artist Corin Ileto to produce, record and mix a new album and supporting visual content.

Jessie Lloyd Music Pty Ltd, St Albans, $20,000

As part of the Mission Songs Project, First Nations musician Jessie Lloyd will record and release, online, a 12-track gospel album, comprising hymns from the early 20th-century ‘missions era’.

Lupa J, Melbourne, $19,930

To support Lupa J to refine her production skills in the techno, dance and pop music genres through the creation of her fourth EP, with supporting PR campaigns across the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Georgia Knight, Clifton Hill, $5,000

For Georgia Knight to record, mix and master her debut EP, featuring five original songs.

Melbourne Electronic Sound Studio Ltd, North Melbourne, $33,800

Support for 24 places in a professional development program that helps early-career electronic musicians gain technical skills from industry professionals and navigate working in the music industry.

Zhonu Moon, Brunswick East, $8,500

Producer Zhonu Moon to record and mix a new album in collaboration with traditional, pop and jazz musicians from Australia, Ethiopia and Morocco.

Multicultural Arts Victoria Inc on behalf of Barbod Valadi, Reservoir, $6,090

To work with the Barbod Valadi jazz trio to create ‘Scattered Shadows’, an original album fusing traditional Persian music and contemporary jazz, promoted through live performances and activities at multicultural community events.

Play On Arts Ltd, Carlton North, $11,450

To mix, master, press and promote a new collaborative album by electronic musicians Sleep D and the chamber music collective Ad Lib Collective.

Press Club, Collingwood, $15,000

Melbourne band Press Club to record, mix and master their third album.

Amanda Roff, Bailieston, $14,470

To produce and release the second LP by pop, electronica and post punk duo Time for Dreams, with original album cover artwork by artist Richard Lewer.

Dougal Shaw, Brunswick, $9,300

To record, release and distribute the second album by post-punk, new wave band Dr Sure’s Unusual Practice.

Libby Steel, Torquay, $9,999

Alternative pop artist Libby Steel to record, produce and promote her debut EP.

Story Baker Pty Ltd, Fitzroy North, $15,000

For a collaborative album between Australian musicians Mick Harvey, Mick Turner, Martin W Brown and Adalita.

Jaquelin Vallejo, Reservoir, $9,925

Musician Iaki Vallejo to collaborate with artist Thando, to record, mix and master a new single reflecting their shared perspectives as women of colour.

Music Works Quick Response grants

What's My Scene South West, $5,000

For a professional development initiative for the musicians, venues and industry representatives in south west Victoria, to develop skills and build and strengthen networks in this region.

These New South Whales, $9,000
The promotion of TNSW Tonight, a live-to-air style talk show featuring bespoke sections, guests, and performances.

Sannia, $5,000
The recording, mixing and mastering of Sannia's debut EP, to be produced and recorded by Andy Mak.

Auspicious Arts Projects on behalf of Michael Harbus-James, SOUTHBANK, $15,000

For the production and release of two music video clips for the all-female, First Nations hip hop group, Oetha.

Barpirdhila Foundation, PASCOE VALE SOUTH, $30,000

For Barpirdhila Foundation to pilot two youth-based programs to create entry points for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders within the music sector. The first will be delivered in partnership with Girls Rock! Melbourne and the second with the Korin Gamadji Institute.

Simona Castricum, BRUNSWICK, $18,665

For the production, mixing, mastering and promotion of Simona Castricum's fourth 12-track album, including performances in Melbourne and Sydney, and a proposed international tour.

Chela, LEOPOLD, $13,000

For Chela to market her new EP globally, including the creation of a music video, artwork and photography.

Cosmic Psychos, DRUMMOND, $15,000

For the recording, mixing and mastering of Cosmic Psychos 11^th studio album.

Aaron Dobos, FITZROY NORTH, $5,385

To enable Aaron to spend a month in LA learning from successful producers, engineers, writers and studios.

David Dower, FOSTER, $7,647

For jazz and contemporary musician David Dower to embark on his third European tour, performing 15 shows in the UK and Bulgaria.

Kutcha Edwards, GREENHILL, $17,500

For the recording, mixing, mastering and manufacturing of Circling Time, Kutcha Edwards' new album, with support from renowned producer Andy Stewart.

Nicholas Finch, BRUNSWICK, $12,321

For Cash Savage and The Last Drinks to embark on a European tour, consisting of 14 performances across five countries, including networking opportunities.

Foreign Brothers on behalf of SO.Crates, NORTHCOTE, $7,125

For Danika Smith to record her first LP, to be produced by Grammy-nominated engineer Nick Herrera.

Girls Rock Melbourne, BRUNSWICK WEST, $11,985

Girls Rock! to travel to Castlemaine to deliver its music education and empowerment program aimed at female, trans, and gender diverse regional youth aged 10-17.

JNB Events Pty Ltd, KENSINGTON, $24,300

For Loch Hart Music Festival, a three-day music, arts and camping festival in the Corangamite Shire, to host and promote music networking and mentoring opportunities at the event.

Samuel Kuzich, ASCOT VALE, $8,910

For the recording, mixing and mastering of Samuel Kuzich's debut album in collaboration with his live band, and Grammy-nominated producer Perrin Moss.

Candice Lorrae Lloyd, MELBOURNE, $20,300

For the mixing, mastering, release and promotion of The Merindas self-produced debut album.

Music in Exile, THORNBURY, $25,333

For the recording, mixing, mastering and marketing of two full-length albums as part of the Music in Exile project by Asecuma Beats and Mindy Meng Wang in collaboration with Sui Zhen, to be released digitally and on vinyl. This includes the creation of two music videos and media campaign material.

Northcote Social Club, NORTHCOTE, $8,000

For the presentation of Wind It Up, a live music series at the Northcote Social Club celebrating the diversity of cultures and genres that make up the Melbourne music scene.

Olympia, BRUNSWICK EAST, $31,800

For Olympia to embark on a tour of Europe and the UK in support of Flamingo, her second album, including shows at Reeperbahn festival in Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels, London, Brighton and Manchester.

Palm Springs, FITZROY NORTH, $15,000

The recording, production, release and marketing of MOD CON's second album.

Pridelands, COLLINGWOOD, $14,480

To record, mix and master Pridelands’ 10-track debut album.

Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever, SOUTH MELBOURNE, $16,120

To embark on a nine-show North American tour to begin the market development campaign for their upcoming album, including meetings with their international team and potential future partners.

RVG, PRESTON, $25,000

For RVG to support Melbourne band Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever on a US tour, promoting their upcoming second album and connecting to new markets via interviews and studio performances.

Sound of the Future, BRUNSWICK EAST, $24,000

For the delivery of the Beats Rhymes & Life Mentorship Program, a unique opportunity for six young First Nations hip hop artists in Mooroopna to be mentored in music production, song creation, marketing and music industry decision-making.

Maddie Stephenson, PRESTON, $16,000

For Neo-soul band 30/70 to embark on a 15-date European tour including six festival slots and nine headline shows to solidify and expand on existing European industry networks, and promote their upcoming third album.

Jamie Stroud, BOX HILL NORTH, $13,000

For Stoic Records to record, mix, master and strategically release two 7" records on vinyl, showcasing the works of Yirghilya, Thando and Lauren Brydie.

Sunnyside, MELBOURNE, $9,520

For Melbourne-based instrumental jazz-funk six-piece Sunnyside to perform two sets at Fuji Rock Festival in Japan, coinciding with a run of five regional Japanese shows.

Wrangler Studios, WEST FOOTSCRAY, $9,000

To undertake an evaluation of the organisation's strategies including financial modelling, business development and website development, to be facilitated by Management Governance Australia.

Press Club, COLLINGWOOD, $16,000

For Melbourne band Press Club to tour the UK and Europe in support of their second album release.

Kee'ahn Bindol, ELWOOD, $7,500

Support for Kee'an to record, mix, master and produce an EP of original songs titled Full Bloom.

Meena Shamaly, BLACK ROCK, $9,322

Support for Meena Shamaly to compose, develop, mix and master the soundtrack for upcoming video game Chaos Tavern, totalling around 12 full tracks. The process will include collaborating and recording with a number of First Nations session musicians.

Quick Response and Major Funding recipients

A Thoughtful Spot Pty Ltd, ELSTERNWICK, $20,000
Lior to undertake a three-week European tour where he will perform and make industry contacts to support the release of new material.

Alexander Biggs, THORNBURY, $3,784
To travel to the UK to perform at The Great Escape festival and to attend a series of meetings and network opportunities with industry stakeholders aimed at securing a UK booking agent.

Ali Barter, FOOTSCRAY, $13,400
To record, mix and master her second studio album.

Amyl and the Sniffers, COBURG, $24,615
Rock n roll, pub punk four-piece Amyl And The Sniffers to travel to the UK and North America. The UK leg will encompass The Great Escape festival, a sold-out show in London and an in-store performance at the legendary record store Rough Trade. In North America they will perform 20 shows in support of King Gizzard And The Lizard Wizard.

Angie McMahon, ALPHINGTON, $11,000
Angie McMahon and her band to undertake a showcase tour of the UK and Europe including meetings with industry representatives.

Annabelle Kingston, FOOTSCRAY, $10,000
The recording and production of a new full-length album and video clip by Waterfall Person, the solo project of Melbourne musician Annabelle Kingston.

Beechworth Music Festival, BEECHWORTH, $1,804
Support for the directors of the Beechworth Music Festival to travel to Melbourne to attend the 2018 Music Cities Convention.

Ben Finocchiaro, COLLINGWOOD, $8,360
A tour of Europe and Japan by drum and bass artist Safire.

Braille Face, BRUNSWICK EAST, $6,500
Dance/electronic artist Braille Face to travel to New York and Los Angeles to undertake writing, recording, and performances ahead of a comprehensive album release campaign.

Brie Jorgensen, BRUNSWICK WEST, $3,500
To travel to New York to attend A2IM Indie Week, a leading international conference for independent record labels. The conference is an opportunity to network and develop new business opportunities for local label Spirit Level and the roster of artists it represents.

C W Stoneking, FOOTSCRAY, $15,000
C.W. Stoneking to record, mix and master his fourth album at the famed studio Memphis Magnetic Recording Co in Tennessee.

Callum Barter, NORTHCOTE, $14,543
Engineer and producer Callum Barter to grow his knowledge and skill set through a three-month stint in the USA where he will assist successful Los Angeles based engineers, producers and studios, as well as working to develop his international networks.

Crescendo Music Australia, MELBOURNE, $9,000
To deliver UnderSCORE, a concert where a live orchestra will perform soundtracks from Australian made digital games. The concert will showcase the craft of composing for games and will build links between local contemporary musicians and key industry players in the film and game development industries.

East Brunswick All Girls Choir, BRUNSWICK EAST, $12,440
To undertake a nine-date tour of Australia and New Zealand as the main support for Courtney Barnett.

Ecca Vandal, FOOTSCRAY, $15,000
Ecca Vandal to conduct headline, festival and showcase performances across the UK and Europe and develop new material.

Foreign National, THORNBURY, $7,000
Indie/pop act Foreign/National to record, mix and master their second studio album.

Gravemind, PRAHAN, $9,200
The metal band Gravemind to record their debut album.

Harrison Storm, $5,000
Singer/songwriter Harrison Storm to take up an invitation to perform a showcase at the East Coast Music Awards, Festival and Conference 2018 in Halifax, Nova Scotia and Canadian Music Week.

HTRK, KALLISTA, $15,000
The recording, mixing and mastering of HTRK's fourth studio album.

IV League, BRUNSWICK EAST, $8,500
The recording, mixing and mastering of IV League’s debut EP, to be produced and recorded in collaboration with acclaimed Victorian producer Malcolm Besley.

Jess Fairfax on behalf of Nhatty Mann, WARRANDYTE, $16,500
The creation of four music videos to accompany the release of the second album by Melbourne-based Ethiopian artist Nhatty Man.

Jesse Lubitz, CAULFIELD SOUTH, $10,000
Indie-folk act Tinpan Orange to undertake a tour of Germany including performances at leading festivals.

Jessie Lloyd, ST ALBANS, $8,000
To undertake a tour of The Mission Songs Project throughout NSW and the NT.

Justin Marshall, CASTLEMAINE, $20,000
The creation, recording and production of a second full length album by Melbourne based soul/jazz group The Putbacks, in collaboration with singer Emma Donovan.

Katherine Campbell, CARLTON NORTH, $12,086
A three-month DJ tour by Roza Terenzi across Europe and Canada to promote three record releases on international labels. During the tour she will aim to secure a European booking agent and meet with labels who have expressed interest in future collaboration

Laura Jean, THORNBURY, $20,000
To undertake a tour of the UK and Europe to promote her upcoming album, Devotion.

Mark Monnone, BRUNSWICK, $9,185
The recording, mixing, mastering and promotion of Monnone Alone's second album.

Michael Katz, FITZROY NORTH, $10,000
The recording, mixing, mastering and art direction of Melbourne producer and instrumentalist Mike Katz's (Harvey Sutherland) debut LP.

Mijo Biscan, FAIRFIELD, $11,000
The promotion of Mijo Biscan’s new alt/rock/pop solo album, Golden Moment.

Monkey Marc, COLLINGWOOD, $20,000
A national tour by Monkey Marc with two Jamaican artists in support of the album, Vital Sound.

Moonlover, FOOTSCRAY, $6,250
A national tour to support their latest LP.

Multicultural Arts Victoria Inc on behalf of Solomon Sisay, SOUTH MELBOURNE, $7,000
Melbourne-based Ethiopian saxophone player Solomon Sisay to record, mix, master, release and promote his debut EP.

Multicultural Arts Victoria Inc on behalf of Thandolwethu Sikwila, SOUTH MELBOURNE, $13,200
Singer/songwriter Thando and her band to record and produce a five-song EP, videos and a 'making of' documentary.

Nattali Rize, ST KILDA, $15,000
Natalie Rize to record, mix and master her second full length album.

Neil Morris, COBURG, $13,000
The writing, recording, mixing, mastering, promotion and a short production run of Neil Morris' debut album.

Nina Buchanan, COBURG, $8,000
The recording, mixing, mastering and pressing of Nina Buchanan’s first full length album. The project will also involve the creation of two video clips and PR activities.

Nite Fleit, CARLTON NORTH, $10,000
An eight-week tour of the UK, Europe and the USA to promote the debut EP from DJ and producer Nite Fleit.

Northcote Social Club, NORTHCOTE, $12,000
A series of all ages gigs that will open up Northcote Social Club, and its music program, to a new generation of audiences.

ORCHA, CARLTON NORTH, $12,500
Matthew Sheers to record, mix, master, produce and publicise his debut album ORCHA.

Pete Keen, SOUTH MELBOURNE, $4,815
The artist, creative director and founder of Melbourne's Sugar Mountain festival Pete Keen to travel to Brazil to take part in key festivals and arts/music conferences where he will build connections across Latin America.

Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever, SOUTH MELBOURNE, $12,500
Pop/punk act Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever to tour the US including performances at Coachella and the Shaky Knees festival in Atlanta.

RVG, PRESTON, $17,200
RVG to embark on their first international tour through Europe and the United Kingdom following the re-release of their critically acclaimed debut album, A Quality of Mercy.

School Damage, NORTHCOTE, $9,897
For the alternative/indie four-piece School Damage to undertake promotional activities and a national tour to promote their latest album. Promotional activities include the creation of two music videos, a photo shoot and creating merchandise and posters.

Small Island Big Song, MOUNT ELIZA, $25,187
To launch the Small Island Big Song project - which brings together artists from across the Indian and Pacific Oceans - internationally via a four-week tour of Europe where the group will perform at festivals and venues.

Sophie Klein, CARNEGIE, $11,000
A marketing and promotional campaign, including a music video, to accompany the release of a new album by Little Wise.

Stephen McLennan, COBURG, $5,993
A European tour by Melbourne psychedelic rock band, Buried Feather, in support of their third full-length album.

Swim Team, BRUNSWICK, $9,627
Melbourne band Swim Team to record, release and distribute their forthcoming debut album.

TEK TEK Ensemble, COBURG, $6,500
Support for TEK TEK Ensemble to produce a 10-track album that captures the essence of the band’s dynamic live performance style.

Two People, COLLINGWOOD, $10,000
A seven-date national tour to support the release of their debut album.

Young Women's Music Incorporated, ALPHINGTON, $10,000
Support for the YoWo Music program, which works with young women and gender non-conforming teenagers, to create, release and promote a full length album that showcases the participants' talents.

Music Works Quick Response Grant Recipients July 2018

Adrian Naidu, $3,000: Adrian Eagle and his band to perform showcases at BIGSOUND with a view to secure a record deal in both Australia and UK.

Deaf Wish, $8,358: Deaf Wish to support San Diego rockers, Hot Snakes, on the first leg of their European tour.

Milk! Records, $3,000: Milk! Records to assist four bands on their roster — Loose Tooth, East Brunswick All Girls Choir, Jade Imagine and Hachiku — to perform showcases at BIGSOUND and facilitate meetings and networking opportunities.

Adam Starr, $15,000: YID!, a 24-piece ensemble to headline the Ashkenaz Festival in Toronto and attend strategic meetings in New York.

Emilee South, $3,000: Emilee South and her band to showcase at BIGSOUND and undertake networking opportunities.

Olympia, $3,000: Olympia and her band to showcase at BIGSOUND and attend industry meetings with a view to lock in an international team.

Thomas Larnach-Jones, $1,500: Thomas Larnach-Jones to attend the Reeperbahn Conference in Hamburg followed by meetings and professional development activities in Berlin and London.

Dandelion Wine, $3,000: Dandelion Wine to attend the Reeperbahn Conference to secure new partners to release their music in Germany.

Elizabeth Mitchell, $3,000: Elizabeth Mitchell and band to showcase at BIGSOUND with the aim of securing alliances with local and international booking agents and international labels.

Joe Chindamo, $4,772: A concert performance of original Australian music by pianist/composer Joe Chindamo and violinist Zoë Black at the Spinacorona Festival in Naples, Italy.

Dion Brownfield on behalf of Kian Brownfield, $3,000: KIAN, his band and management to attend and showcase at BIGSOUND.

Mildlife, $10,000: Mildlife to conduct a UK and Europe tour to promote their debut album titled Phase and a new 12" remix EP.

Music Works – Major Funding round recipients

Aeroplane Agency, Brunswick: $5,000
Support for the Up The Guts Regional Live Music Tour. This grant will contribute to the costs associated with touring three Australian artists, with 18 live shows across four states including three dates in regional Victoria.

Alexandra Kolac (Xani), Brunswick: $8,350
Supporting an EP recording, release and launch event for pop artist Xani.

AMISTAT, Heidelberg Heights: $10,000
Known for their popular stints busking in Melbourne's CBD, this grant will support a European tour by folk band Amistat with fellow Melbourne act Oliver's Army.

Audrey Studios, Coburg: $5,835
Support for the Audrey Studios Recording Pathways program, a valuable professional development program with a diverse focus that allows participants to record with award-winning female producer, Anna Laverty.

Auspicious Arts Projects on behalf of Michael Harbus-James, Melbourne: $11,400
Support for the production and promotion of  a new EP by Sister Girl, three female MC's from Koori, Kukatha and Agwamin country.

Sean Bailey, Northcote: $4,200
Support for Lakes' 'Silver Thorns' EP recording project, which will bring together gothic, folk, industrial and punk influences.

Bedroom Suck Records,  Brunswick: $20,000
Support for the Great Southern Land tour, a 35-gig  regional Victoria and Tasmania tour featuring artists signed to the independent label Bedroom Suck Records.

Sophia Brous, Malvern East: $10,000
Support for the production and final mixing of a studio album by EXO-TECH, an improvised industrial outfit led by Sophia Brous, with a growing international following. The album will be finalised with UK producer David Wrench.

Sarah Carroll, Clifton Springs: $10,000
Country music artist, Sarah Carroll, will take her band on tour to metro and regional centres in Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales and the ACT to promote their recent album, 'Star Parade'.

Simona Castricum, Brunswick: $13,000
Support for the production of a 12" EP and remix release by Simona Castricum, who is recognised as a leader in Victoria's growing gender non-conforming music community.

Simon Charles, Parkville: $8,768
Support for the production of 'Marionette: A Recording' by composer and sound artist, Simon Charles. International labels have already expressed interest in releasing this work.

Jen Cloher, Thornbury: $15,500
Support for a debut tour in the UK and Europe in September 2017, to promote her next album.

Biddy Connor, Thornbury: $18,900
Support for the production of the debut album by The Letter String Quartet featuring singer/songwriter Marita Dyson.

Cooking Vinyl Australia,  Kensington: $5,010
Heavy and alternative music label, Cooking Vinyl Australia, will travel to the United States to attend business meetings and networking events in order to create and expand opportunities for current label artists.

Didirri, Yarraville: $15,835
Support for a new EP recording by folk artist Didirri.

El Perro Productions, St Kilda: $19,792
Support for the GRID Series Artist Development Program, which has a track record of providing development opportunities for young aspiring music professionals in outer South-East Melbourne.

Foreign Brothers on behalf of SO.Crates, Northcote: $10,000
Production support for hip hop outfit SO.Crates' double EP release on limited edition vinyl.

Kate Herrington, Fitzroy North: $5,850
Support for the production and promotion of the debut album of experimental-pop project Full Flower Moon Band.

Huntly, Clifton Hill: $11,000
This grant will support the recording of the début album by electronic trip Huntly.

Jenny M. Thomas, Thornbury: $9,300
Support for Bush Gothic to take their reworked Australian folk songs to New Zealand and the United Kingdom, following a successful 2016 tour to Europe.

Jonnine Standish, Kallista: $8,200
Support for the promotion of the album 'Super Natural' by electronic artist/songwriter Jonnine Standish.

Michael Katz, East Melbourne: $15,000
Support for Harvey Sutherland and Bermuda's headline European Tour in 2017, which will include esteemed festivals such as Glastonbury, Sonar and Love International.

KEWL, Abbotsford: $18,000
Support for 'Now Sound', a film project which seeks to capture and celebrate the current state of the Melbourne independent music scene.

LANKS, Windsor: $12,000
Support for the debut album by electronic artist LANKS.

Joel Ma, Fitzroy North: $18,400
Support for an ambitious collaborative music project, Joelistics Presents Film School, in which MC Joelistics will take on his first producer role.

Nicholas Martyn, Coburg: $4,000
Support for a professional development opportunity in Cuba to experience rhythm, percussion technique and the musical language of Cuba. Having worked extensively with Victorian artists, such as the Cat Empire and Clary Browne, Martyn will benefit creatively and professionally from this unique opportunity.

Jade McInally, Fitzroy North: $11,350
Support for the production and promotion of the début album by Melbourne alternative four-piece Jade Imagine.

Guy Blackman, Clifton Hill: $25,000
Following on from recent signings with an international distributor, Chapter Music will receive funding for tailored publicity campaigns that will promote six of their artists in the United States and United Kingdom.

Monkey Marc, Canterbury: $10,000
Support for the recording, mixing and mastering of producer Monkey Marc's third album in collaboration with leading Jamaican reggae artists. Support will also cover an accompanying music video and worldwide online promotion.

Null, West Footscray: $9,700
Instrumental electronic music project Null has been developing audiences for a number of years. The grant will support the recording and release of Null's debut album.

James O'Brien, Coburg: $5,000
Support for the recording and release campaign for the sophomore album by Darling James, Mood Eyes.

Geoffrey O'Connor, Brunswick: $7,000
Recording and production of a new solo album.

Potatoheadz Records, Brunswick: $4,005
Since its beginnings in Ballarat, Potatoheadz Records has built a solid local and international following within the EDM club scene. This grant will support the production of a new four-track vinyl EP featuring the label's artists.

Raised By Eagles, Collingwood: $9,800
Support for an east coast tour of regional and metro venues to support the launch of the new album by the alt-country/roots act Raised by Eagles.

Emma Russack, Northcote: $10,000
Support for the production and promotion of a fourth studio album by the indie singer-songwriter.

Laila Sakini, Belgrave South: $7,400
Support for the promotion of electronic music artist Laila Sakini's 'Figures' EP across Europe and the UK with a new music video.

Lisa Salvo, Reservoir: $6,000
Support for the recording of a new album by progressive pop artist Lisa Salvo, performing as On Diamond.

Smooch Records, Brunswick: $17,000
Support for the publicity and promotional activities of Smooch Records, an energetic, local, alternative music label that plans to release and publicise six releases across 12 months.

Raquel Solier, Brunswick: $10,000
Support for the production of a début album by electronic act Various Asses, with accompanying visual content.

Tetrahedra, Thornbury: $11,120
This grant will enable electro-pop outfit, Tetrahedra to collaborate with a well-known local photographer and videographer to produce an audio-visual EP.

The Black Sistaz, Maidstone: $10,000
Support for West Papuan music trio The Black Sistaz to record their new EP in July 2017.

The Cactus Channel, Fitzroy: $13,150
Creation of soul/funk/pop band The Cactus Channel's third studio album.

The Push Incorporated, Brunswick: $14,400
Support for the ongoing Push Songs program, a songwriting mentorship program with a track record of delivering strong outcomes for young Victorian songwriters.

This Way North,  Alexandra: $7,606
Support for a new EP recording, to take place in Canada, followed by a west coast Canadian tour designed to build on and expand the band's North American industry contacts.

Áine Tyrrell, Killarney: $17,500
Support for a songwriting and recording mentorship that will see Melbourne-based contemporary Irish folk artist, Áine Tyrrell work with, and learn from, acclaimed Irish act Glen Hansard and the Frames.

Wet Lips, Brunswick: $8,028
Support for a 13-date east coast tour by punk/rock outfit Wet Lips to support the release of a new album. Support is also provided for tour promotion and for a music video.

Emily York, Collingwood: $5,000
Support for tour promoter Emily York to undertake a professional development opportunity in the UK to develop her networks with a view to attracting more international acts to tour to Victoria.

Music Works – Quick Response grants

Charlotte Abroms, Fitzroy: $3,067
For music manager Charlotte Abroms to travel to the UK to attend The Great Escape music festival to connect with industry leaders and seek opportunities for her Victorian clients.

Cannonball, Nunawading: $10,390
For a tour by jazz/groove/soul sextet Cannonball which will see the group perform and present workshops at the Hong Kong International Jazz Festival, Zhuhai World & Jazz Music Festival (China), Dajidian Music Festival (Baoding, China), and also at clubs and educational institutions in Beijing, Zhongshan (China).

Cookin' On 3 Burners, Preston: $7,000
For a six-date tour to the UK. The tour will capitalise on the group's worldwide success of their 2016 collaboration with French electronic music producer Kungs (Kungs vs. Cookin' On 3 Burners 'This Girl') which went to number one on the charts in France, Germany, Belgium, Hungary, Latvia and Scotland and number two on the UK singles chart.

Courtney Clarke, Fitzroy North: $4,750
For Melbourne artist CC:Disco! (Courtney Clark) to travel to Europe for a schedule of performances, meetings with industry representatives to discuss and present future music releases.

D.D Dumbo, Collingwood: $12,000
For a three week tour of Europe to support the release of D.D Dumbo's debut album, 'Utopia Defeated'.

Jonathan Heilbron, Elwood: $2,690
To tour to Israel, Norway, Russia and Germany to perform at leading festivals and venues.

Lewis Ingham, Hawthorn East: $1,500
To travel to the US to participate in a composition program held as part of the 2017 Charlotte New Music Festival.

Mandy Connell, Wangaratta: $1,040
Support to produce 'An Otherwise Quiet Room' a video series hosted by Mandy Connell that features interviews and performance by independent singer/songwriters.

Tim Shiel, Clifton Hill: $4,147
For a three week trip to the US (Los Angeles and New York) to build international networks and capitalise on opportunities for both himself and the artists he represents via his independent record label Spirit Level. The trip will include attendance at A2IM Indie Week, an international conference and networking event for independent music

Quick Response Grants Recipients

REMI, $5,000
For a tour to the UK and Germany including a performance at Brighton Festival.

Woodes, $5,000
For showcase performances at SXSW in Austin, Texas followed by a trip to Los Angeles for meetings and professional development opportunities.

Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever, $8,000
For a tour to North America

WILSN $5,000
For showcase performances during SXSW Showcase in Austin, Texas.

Ainslie Wills, $5,000
For a 16 date UK tour supporting Tom Chaplin including a performance at The Great Escape.

Carla dal Forno, $5,000
To perform at six European festivals.

Gabriella Cohen, $10,000
For Gabriella Cohen and her band to perform showcases at SXSW followed by dates in the US to support Foxygen

Slow Dancer, $5,000
To tour the US and UK.

The Southern Ocean Sea Band, $4,000
For a tour to community halls in South West Victoria.