The Venue Upgrade Grants program provides funding for contemporary live music venues in NSW to undertake assessment reports, purchase equipment, deliver infrastructure works and install advanced technology.
These grants aim to increase the number of fit-for-purpose live music venues across NSW, uplift sector knowledge and expertise, and generate greater live music diversity and vibrancy in communities while significantly enhancing audience experiences.
Venue Upgrade Grants is split into two programs:
- Advice and Planning: Funding up to $20,000 for live music venues to access best practice advice from consultants and experts, including guidance on DA and planning expenses, legal services, consultants and venue assessment reports.
- Infrastructure and Equipment: Funding up to $150,000 for dedicated live music venues to purchase equipment and undertake infrastructure works, or up to $300,000 for high-end audiovisual systems and advanced lighting technology.
Advice and Planning will be offered across three closing dates:
- Thursday 17 September 2026 – for activity starting after 19 October
- Monday 23 November 2026 – for activity starting after 28 December
- Monday 3 May 2027 – for activity starting after 7 June
Infrastructure and Equipment will run as a two-stage process:
- Stage one – Applications to the expression of interest round will close at 2pm on 28 September
- Stage two – Venues successful at the expression of interest round will be invited to submit a full application
For more information, or to register for an information session, click here.
Posted in Grants