Grants to boost regional Victoria’s creative events

APPLICATIONS for the Small Regional Presenters program are now open with grants up to $15,000 available for events taking place in 2025.

The funds can be used to help volunteers and local councils present more shows, gigs and performances in towns, putting on events and boosting local economies.

Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks announced the grants, saying Victoria is a creative state.

“This is one of the ways we are making sure our creative scene is thriving right across the state – with towns and communities of all sizes having the chance to experience world class performances,” he said.

Events around the region have previously received grants from the program, including Music at the Basilica which presented two concerts by the Australian Chamber Choir at St Mary’s Basilica.

The Sound Doctor in Anglesea was also a recipient during last year’s program, receiving $15,000 to bring live contemporary music over four weekends to the Surf Coast venue.

New or emerging volunteer small regional presenters or returning volunteer community presenters are eligible to apply for the funding for shows taking place between March 1 and December 1, 2025.

The program is delivered on behalf of the Labor Government by Regional Arts Victoria, supporting a range of creative events across the state.

“This program provides so many benefits – from backing local groups to present creative events that they know will bring the community together, to boosting tourism and helping artists to grow their audiences,” Mr Brooks said.

Applications close on October 23, with outcomes to be delivered from the start of December.

For more information, or to apply for the program, visit rav.net.au