TONY BURKE MP

MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS

MINISTER FOR IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP

MINISTER FOR CYBER SECURITY

MINISTER FOR THE ARTS

LEADER OF THE HOUSE

DORINDA COX

SENATOR FOR WESTERN AUSTRALIA

The music sounds better in O’Connor

The Albanese Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to support our live music industry to keep venues open and festivals entertaining fans across the country.

Through the Revive Live program, the Albanese Labor Government will provide support to 105 organisations across Australia, including in O’Connor.

The funding ensures music venues and festivals remain open and accessible to all audiences.

Among those receiving funding are:

·      Albany Town Hall WA: Live @ the Town Hall 2026 will receive $150,000 for Original Australian Artist fees.

·      Boyup Brook Country Music Muster WA will receive $65,000 for equipment and production costs.

·      Bridgetown Pottery-Restaurant: Willow Whispers Bridgetown will receive $51,600 for Original Australian Artist fees, equipment and production costs.

·      Cuby GrooveFest 2026 will receive $70,000 for Original Australian Artist fees.

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the program is continuing to provide much-needed support at a particularly difficult time for the Australian live music industry.

“We understand the challenges contributing to cancellations and closures among the live music scene, that’s why the Albanese Labor Government established Revive Live, to provide targeted support.

“Venue and festival owners across Australia have told me that Revive Live has provided the support they need to continue hosting and promoting live music.

“Gigs have always been a huge part of my life. I know the vital role live music venues and festivals play in providing local artists with the chance to perform, develop and grow audiences.

“Music lovers should be able to enjoy local gigs, artists should be able to make a career out of their music and Revive Live is doing just that.

Senator for Western Australia, Dorinda Cox, said the program will bring people together and foster creativity in our own backyard.

“Live music is part of the heartbeat of regional WA – it brings people together, strengthens community and gives local artists the chance to shine. I’m proud to se venues and festivals across O’Connor getting the support they need to keep that energy alive.”

“This funding means more than just keeping doors open. It means young musicians in places like Albany, Bridgetown and Boyup Brook can see a pathway for their talent, right here at home. That matters for our local economies and the next generation of WA artists.”

“The Albanese-Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to back regional creatives and ensure communities outside the big cities don’t miss out. These investments will help our towns stay vibrant, connected and full of opportunities for local music lovers and performers alike.”

Established in the 2024-25 Budget, Revive Live aligns with the Albanese Labor Government’s National Cultural Policy, Revive, which recognises the Australian music sector as a vibrant part of our arts and cultural landscape.

Through Revive, the Government last year established Music Australia within Creative Australia, with new funding of more than $69 million to support and promote the Australian contemporary music industry to increase discoverability and develop markets and audiences.

More information about Revive Live including successful applicants can be found here.

21 NOVEMBER 2025

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