The Victorian Government has unveiled a $16.8 million survival package for the arts, to provide support for organisations and individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The arts have been devastated by restrictions on gatherings due to the coronavirus, and support initiatives are being launched around the country. Create NSW and the ABC have also announced new initiatives to support the creative sector, while Artist Relief Fund WA is offering targeted support for arts workers in Western Australia. Meanwhile, the City of Melbourne has announced the first of its successful grant recipients and Queensland’s HOTA has announced the artists supported by its Rage Against the V(irus) program.

The Heide Museum of Modern Art. Photo © Heide Museum of Modern Art

The Victorian Government’s support package includes a $13 million Strategic Investment Fund, which will be shared between almost 100 non-government arts and cultural organisations, including La Mama Theatre, Heide Museum of Modern Art, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, the Melbourne Fringe, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale, Clunes Booktown Festival, Ilbijerri Theatre Company  and Kaiela Arts.

A new $2.2 million Sustaining Creative Workers fund will offer quick response grants...