Create NSW – the NSW Government’s arts and cultural driver – has announced over $650,000 in grants to be delivered to 70 music and performance focussed artists and organisations in support of new ideas devised in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding, which is a significant increase on the $450,000 originally committed, has been specifically targeted to help the small to medium-sized arts and cultural sector. In addition, a majority of the artists and projects chosen are based in areas affected by the recent bushfires.

Kanen Breen and Jacqui Dark as Strange Bedfellows

“The NSW Government recognises the impact these uncertain times have had on the arts and cultural sector and this funding package is focused on supporting the continued work of the sector,” said Create NSW Executive Director Chris Keely. “Artists and organisations across the State will now be able to deliver projects digitally, support their communities and ensure audience engagement in the immediate and long term – including presenting new events that will premiere once it is safe to do so.”

The funding has been allocated across four program categories: Digitise, Creative Koori Digital, Health and Wellbeing and Regenerate. Scanning the...