Deadline: 02-Jun-2026
The Contemporary Music Touring Program provides funding between AUD 5,000 and AUD 50,000 to support Australian musicians in delivering national tours of original contemporary music. The program prioritizes audience development, regional engagement, and expanding access to live music across Australia.
Overview of the Contemporary Music Touring Program
The Contemporary Music Touring Program is a funding initiative designed to support Australian musicians, groups, and music organisations in undertaking national tours. The program focuses on promoting original Australian contemporary music through live performances across multiple locations outside the artist’s home base.
It aims to strengthen the live music ecosystem by increasing audience reach, supporting touring activity, and improving access to performances in regional and remote communities.
Key Objectives and Focus Areas
- National touring across Australia
- Live music performances of original work
- Audience development and engagement
- Regional and remote community access
- Promotion of Australian contemporary music
These focus areas ensure both cultural impact and industry growth.
Funding Details
- Grant range: AUD 5,000 to AUD 50,000
- Funding level depends on tour scale and reach
- Higher funding is available for:
- Regional and remote tours
- Multi-location or extensive touring schedules
Funding supports costs directly related to planning and delivering the tour.
Eligible Touring Activities
The program supports various formats, including:
- Headline tours
- Support tours
- Festival performances
- Biennale participation
- Commissioned performances
All tours must include at least three venues outside the applicant’s home location.
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an individual artist, group, organisation, manager, or music network
- Represent professionals within the Australian music industry
- Propose a tour featuring original Australian contemporary music
- Submit one application per tour proposal
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply:
- Develop a clear national touring plan with at least three venues outside your base location.
- Ensure the tour features original Australian contemporary music.
- Define audience engagement and regional outreach strategies.
- Prepare a detailed budget aligned with the requested funding.
- Submit the application through the Creative Australia application system.
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Artistic quality and originality
- Feasibility and planning of the tour
- Audience development potential
- Regional and remote engagement
- Overall impact on the music sector
Why This Program Matters
- Expands national exposure for Australian musicians
- Strengthens the live music touring network
- Improves access to music in underserved regions
- Supports sustainable careers in the music industry
- Promotes original Australian cultural content
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposing tours with fewer than three external venues
- Including non-original or ineligible music content
- Weak or unclear touring schedules
- Lack of audience engagement strategy
- Incomplete or unrealistic budgets
FAQ
1. What is the funding range?
Applicants can receive between AUD 5,000 and AUD 50,000.
2. What type of music is eligible?
Only original Australian contemporary music is supported.
3. How many venues are required?
A minimum of three venues outside the applicant’s home base is required.
4. Who can apply?
Artists, groups, organisations, managers, and music networks in Australia.
5. Are regional tours prioritized?
Yes, tours in regional and remote areas are given priority.
6. Can festivals be included?
Yes, festival performances are eligible if part of a touring plan.
7. Where do I apply?
Applications must be submitted through the Creative Australia system.
Conclusion
The Contemporary Music Touring Program is a strategic funding opportunity that enables Australian musicians to expand their reach, engage new audiences, and strengthen the national music landscape. By supporting structured touring and prioritizing regional access, the program plays a key role in sustaining and growing Australia’s contemporary music industry.
For more information, visit Creative Australia.
