Deadline Date: February 02, 2026
The NSW Government has opened applications for the Venue Upgrade Grants 2025-26 program supports dedicated live music venues in New South Wales to enhance audience experiences through the installation of advanced screen and lighting technology.
The focus areas, objectives, and priorities of the program include building the capability of live music venues to deliver world-class audience and visitor experiences, increasing the number of fit-for-purpose live music venues in NSW, strengthening sector knowledge and expertise in best practice sound management and sustainable live music programming, reducing sound impact on neighbouring communities to lower complaints and improve business viability, increasing diversity of live music offerings, and investing in advanced screen and lighting technology to enhance performance and audience engagement. Administered by Sound NSW under the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport, this grant provides significant funding support for venue upgrade projects. Venues with a capacity of up to 1,000 patrons may apply for grants of up to $200,000 excluding GST, while venues with a capacity exceeding 1,000 patrons may apply for up to $500,000 excluding GST.
The funding supports projects that invest in high-end audiovisual systems and dynamic lighting effects designed to elevate live music experiences. Eligible technology includes advanced screen systems such as LED video walls, projection, or mixed-reality solutions, as well as intelligent and AI-enhanced lighting systems. Funding may also support venue design and visual mapping works that integrate lighting and screens with performance zones, including on-stage rigging, and immersive audiovisual systems that enhance audience engagement through live visual integration.
Applicants are required to co-contribute a minimum of 30 percent of the total project budget, which may include both cash and in-kind contributions. In-kind contributions can consist of donated goods, professional services, or volunteer work that directly supports the delivery of the project. Funded projects must be delivered within a 12-month period, with projects required to commence by 30 June 2026 and be completed by 1 June 2027. This timeframe ensures timely delivery and alignment with the program’s objectives of strengthening the live music sector.
Eligibility is limited to dedicated live music venues based in New South Wales where live music is the primary function of the business. Eligible venues may be licensed or unlicensed, must predominantly program new and original contemporary live music, actively promote this programming, and maintain a dedicated space equipped for live performances. Venues must demonstrate commitment to best industry practices, have formal artist payment arrangements in place, and hold an active One Music Licence for live music performances.
For more information, visit NSW Government.
