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  Recent
                    Coronavirus (COVID-19) update
                    Read latest updates on our response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.
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                    Assistance for creatives during COVID-19

                    A person standing in front of a wall painted with a colourful abstract design
                    COVID-19 is testing us all – and now is the time to be creative in our response. As part of our response, we initially committed $2 million in grants to artists and creatives to invest in new works, and digital presentation of works and performances.

                    Due to the strength of applications and overwhelming response from the creative community, we allocated additional funds – providing almost $2.5 million to local artists. 

                    Applications are now closed and all funds have now been allocated.

                    These quick response grants build on our existing grants for creatives, and other support we are providing for artists and arts organisations during COVID-19 – such as mentoring through our Business Concierge Service and rent relief for eligible tenants in Council-owned buildings. 

                    For further information on our response to COVID-19 and other support available, visit our COVID-19 page.

                    Creative Victoria, in partnership with Regional Arts Victoria and Arts Access Victoria, have recently announced the Sustaining Creative Workers initiative to support creatives whose work and livelihoods have been negatively impacted by coronavirus.

                    Cybersecurity and scams
                    Sadly, scammers are using the spread of COVID-19 to take advantage of people across Australia. Please be aware that City of Melbourne does not charge a fee for our grants or hardship policy applications. Visit Scamwatch for more on coronavirus scams or to report an issue.

                    Frequently asked questions

                    COVID-19 arts grants

                    When did applications open and close?

                    Applications are now closed. 

                    Applications first opened on 26 March 2020 and temporarily closed on 1 April 2020. Applications re-opened on 14 April 2020 and closed on 24 April.

                    All grants have now been allocated, with 777 artists receiving up to $4000.

                    When will I find out the outcome?

                    All grants have now been allocated, with 777 artists receiving up to $4000.

                    The list of successful applicants can be viewed below.

                    When will projects start?

                    ​Successful applicants should commence their artwork before 30 June 2020.

                    If successful when would I receive funds for my work?

                    ​If you are successful, please sign and return the funding letter of agreement, along with the required creditor agreement and tax invoice. We will process funds as soon as practicable.

                    Successful applications​

                    The following artists and small creative organisations have received funding as part of City of Melbourne’s COVID-19 arts grants. Further announcements will be made in the coming weeks. 

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