Sydney arts venue Carriageworks has stood down almost half of its core staff as of April 9, due to financial challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The multi-arts venue, whose resident companies include Sydney Chamber Opera, Force Majeure, Marrageku and Moogahlin Performing Arts, has been closed to the public since March 23.

Sydney’s Carriageworks

“Like much of the Arts and Entertainment sector around the world, Carriageworks is prevented from operating events and delivering artistic projects due to current regulations regarding public gatherings,” said Carriageworks CEO Blair French in a statement on the company’s website. “It is not possible for the company to continue business as usual. The result has been a significant reduction in our revenue stream. Consequently, our cost base must be urgently reduced.”

“To that end, effective immediately, Carriageworks is standing down almost half of its core employees for an anticipated minimum period of four months, underpinned by the Federal Government’s JobKeeper wage subsidy,” French said. “The Executive Team and remaining full-time staff will be asked to work three days a week for a minimum period of four months, underpinned by JobKeeper. We also continue to scope and pursue potential support for...