The omicron surge has had devastating effects on the arts and event sector in the state. To combat this, the NSW government has today announced a major relief package in the form of a $43 million Event Saver Fund meant to aid festivals and events that have been disrupted due to covid-19 public health orders.
According to a media release, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said that the funding would be a critical lifeline for event organisers and provide them with financial security to plan future events.
Event Saver Fund
The funding dubbed ‘Event Saver Fund’ was first announced back in October 2021 but more information and full details on how to apply are available now.
Find them on the Create NSW website.
“Major events are a key economic driver that create thousands of jobs across the state,” Mr Perrottet said.
“The Event Saver Fund will ensure that organisers aren’t left high and dry as we work through this latest phase of the pandemic and sends a strong signal that the Government is here to support business.”
Treasurer Matt Kean added that the funding was in response to the major impact of Covid-19 on the arts and tourism industry.
“Festivals and major events are huge drawcards and they have been significantly disrupted by the latest Omicron wave of COVID-19,” he said.
Read the full statement here:
Media release: Organisers of major events and festivals that have been cancelled or significantly disrupted by COVID Public Health Orders will be supported by funding through the NSW Government’s Event Saver Fund. pic.twitter.com/XU9sCntoHx
— Dominic Perrottet (@Dom_Perrottet) January 17, 2022
The announcement follows news of several popular events either being cancelled or postponed due to the current outbreak including the King Street Carnival, Grapevine Gathering and the Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Expressions of interest for the Event Saver Fund are now open and valid for events scheduled to be held between December 15, 2021 to the end of 2022.