From Councils website – http://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/hot-topics/new-music-venue-grants-go-live-/

Local live music venues can apply for a standalone grant of $2000 or $5000 (if they contribute the same amount) for a range of goods and services, including soundproofing treatments or advice from acoustic consultants.

Council established the grants this year to respond to the growing pressure on live music venues to address noise complaints from residents.  The grants aim to provide practical support to live music venues to address noise issues and to encourage both venues and residents be good neighbours to each other.

Venues can apply for the grants all-year-round by visiting the Yarra Smarty Grants website. Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application within two weeks.

The Live Music Venues Grants Program is one of a number of Council initiatives that recognise the cultural and economic contributions of live music to Yarra.

In 2010, Council established a Live Music Working Group to identify issues that impact upon Yarra’s live music community. In the same year, Council granted special parking permits to live music venues to allow musicians to load and unload their equipment in front of venues without being fined. This year, Council contributed $80,000 to the second annual Leaps and Bounds Music Festival, which showcased local talent in Yarra venues in mid-July.

For further information, visit the Yarra City Arts website or contact Kirsty Baird, Arts and Cultural Development Officer on 9205 5038 or Kirsty.Baird@yarracity.vic.gov.au