The local arts sector has received a major boost today in its recovery from COVID-19, with Generations in Jazz in the Limestone Coast awarded a share of more than $20 million, under the fifth batch of grants from the Federal Government’s $200 million Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund.
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP said this $20 million in funding is especially important during such a difficult period for the sector.
“Demand for RISE funding has been significant since it opened last year. The latest funding will be allocated immediately to create more than 23,000 employment opportunities across the country,” Minister Fletcher said.
“Our commitment to these organisations will play an important part in rebuilding our local arts and entertainment sectors, and will assist in the long-term sustainability of cultural and creative organisations throughout Barker.”
Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said this funding will provide critical support and a pathway for a leading arts organisation in Mount Gambier.
“I am pleased to announce that Generations in Jazz have received $350,000 from the Federal Government’s RISE Fund, ensuring that Generations in Jazz can return in 2022.” Mr Pasin said.
“Generations in Jazz is an internationally recognised music event that has fostered generations of Australian jazz performers in a uniquely South Australian regional setting,” Mr Pasin said.
“Cancellation of both the 2020 and 2021 events significantly impacted not only Generations itself but also the many local community and sporting organisations, service groups and accommodation and hospitality providers, that collaborate on an annual basis to ensure this event lives up to its national and international reputation as a prestigious and unique showcase.”
“I wish the Generations in Jazz organising committee every success and look forward to seeing Generations roar back in 2022.”
Generations in Jazz Event Coordinator Karyn Roberts said the Federal Government RISE grant secures the future of Generations in Jazz.
“For nearly 30 years, Generations in Jazz has delivered a premier, national music event for Australian secondary school students, but after the cancellation of both the 2020 and 2021 events we were unsure of the future for this significant event post the covid-19 pandemic.” Ms Roberts said.
“The Federal Government’s financial support is a welcome relief and we are so grateful for Tony’ assistance. The funding will be used to offset increased infrastructure expenses and give Generations in Jazz the scope to plan with confidence in 2022.” Ms Roberts said.
“Generations in Jazz is unique as one of a kind in the southern hemisphere and should be a source of pride for all those who are and have been connected to it.” Ms Roberts said.
“The Federal Government grant enables the event founders and organisers to continue to achieve their unwavering original vision – to create a unique experience for students, schools, educators, musicians, and our community, to celebrate and inspire a love of jazz music across generations.” Ms Roberts said.
To date, the Government has already allocated $160 million of the $200 million RISE Fund, creating more than 167,000 job opportunities and expanding cultural and creative experiences for audiences across Australia.
The Morrison Government is investing more than $1 billion into the arts and creative sector in 2021- 22.
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