Help for local creatives

CREATIVES working and living in the region are set to receive additional support from the city under the Arts Industry Development Fund.

A total of $30,000 has been earmarked under the new initiative with support of up to $3,000 available to artists and arts organisation representatives to help build their capacity.

The Arts and Culture Department is coordinating the support scheme in response to the art community’s needs in the wake of COVID-19 and their economic recovery.

During a consultation period local artists identified a gap in skills and training in areas of marketing, business viability and innovation, digital and online technical literacy, OHS and new compliance requirements, mentorships, project planning and financial planning.

Deputy mayor and chair of the Creative Communities and Culture portfolio, Trent Sullivan, said the funding is a terrific opportunity.

“Local artists and creatives continue to face new and evolving challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, which can be tricky to navigate as they recover from the past year,” he said.

“I encourage those looking to get back on their feet and build capacity to apply for the funding, as it could make a big difference to their operations in the future.”

Applications to receive the funding have now opened to established artists and arts organisation representatives who are permanent residents of the City of Greater Geelong with a current ABN/ACN or Inc and no outstanding debts to council.

Representatives have until April 30 to apply, with the city notifying applicants of the outcome by May 28.