URGENT UPDATE: Applications for the highly anticipated 2025 Touring Victoria program are now open, offering regional artists and producers between $10,000 and $150,000 to bring their talents to metropolitan Melbourne. This initiative aims to expand audiences and foster professional networks, directly impacting the creative landscape across Victoria.
The program also supports Melbourne artists and organizations in taking their performances to regional venues, ensuring that talent reaches every corner of the state. The previous funding round enabled six companies to deliver an impressive 224 performances at over 118 locations throughout Victoria, highlighting the program’s substantial impact.
Among the standout productions last year was MEERTA – Rise Up!, a groundbreaking First Nations musical created by Gunditjmara singer-songwriter David Arden. This powerful show, which explores themes of Aboriginal identity and resilience, captivated audiences in 10 different locations. Additionally, Orchestra Victoria conducted a tour across 12 sites, bringing concerts and workshops to regional venues, aged care homes, schools, and libraries, enriching community engagement.
The program’s reach extends beyond traditional venues, with performances like a musical circus featuring 12 young acrobats from the National Youth Circus, ensuring family-friendly entertainment across the state. Award-winning production company Finucane & Smith also contributed by collaborating with community members to present Lola, a show celebrating the life of legendary Spanish showgirl Lola Montez.
“Victoria is the creative state, and we’re making sure that wherever people live, they can experience all the fantastic events on offer,” stated Colin Brooks, Minister for Creative Industries. He emphasized the program’s role in enabling Victorian artists, companies, and venues to expand their audiences, stimulate local economies, and enhance their businesses.
IMPORTANT DEADLINE: Artists and producers interested in applying for the Touring Victoria program must submit their applications by Thursday, December 4, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your creative projects and connect with broader audiences. For more details, visit the Creative Victoria website.
As the creative sector continues to recover and thrive, the Touring Victoria program stands as a beacon for artistic expression and community connection, making it essential for artists to act swiftly and apply now.
