Resonate Magazine | Australian Music Centre

Support Act's COVID-19 Crisis Relief Grants are now open for applications. With funding support from the Australian Government, Support Act is able to offer additional crisis relief to musicians, crew and music workers who are unable to access Government benefits due to eligibility or other issues; music workers who have been able to access Government benefits but are still facing financial hardship; and to those who are suffering financial hardship as a result of injury, ill-health or a mental health issue that is managed through a current Mental Health plan.

If your ability to work has been impacted by COVID-19 and you are a musician, crew or music worker, you may be eligible to apply for Crisis Relief, provided you:

• are an Australian citizen, permanent resident or have a valid working visa
• can prove that you have been working in the music industry for three years
• can provide names and details of two professional referees
• have household expenses which are greater than your household income.

There is no deadline to apply, however, applications are encouraged as soon as possible. Support Act's social workers aim to process applications within 21 days of receipt, but delays may be experienced due to high demand.

For successful applicants, the financial support will be available in the areas of rent/mortgage, food, utilities, medical equipment and costs. Support Act may also offer support that is not financial, or refer you to other services. They do not provide assistance for businesses, and cannot provide funding for office or studio rent, purchase of musical equipment, payment of staff etc.

> For all details and to apply, please go to the Support Act website

> For mental health advice and support, please don't hesistate to call Support Act's Wellbeing Helpline by calling 1800 959 500. The helpline is operational 24 hrs per day, 7 days a week.