Venue Upgrade Grants 25/26 - Advice and Planning

This is a preview of the Venue Upgrade Grants 2025/26 - Advice and Planning form. When you’re ready to apply, click Fill Out Now to begin.
 

About the grant

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Program Details

This grant is funded and administered by Sound NSW. 

The 2056-26 Venue Upgrade Grants – Advice & Planning (‘the Program’) a Venues Unlocked initiative, is an open, competitive round. 

This series of funding programs is designed to support NSW contemporary live music venues with varied experience in live music programming. It aims to increase the number of fit-for- purpose live music venues across the state, uplift sector knowledge and expertise, improve audience experience and generate greater live music diversity and vibrancy in communities. 

Venues who demonstrate a commitment to increasing live music programming may apply for grants to support advice from consultants and experts to create fit-for-purpose venues. Advice may include: 

  • assessment reports to support infrastructure development (e.g. soundproofing, ventilation, accessibility) 
  • development application and planning expenses 
  • legal services and licensing consultants 
  • energy efficiency audits 

Key information

  • Grant Type: Open, competitive 
  • Grant amount: Up to $20,000 (ex GST) per grant application 
  • Applications open: Now open
  • Applications close: Monday 22nd December 2025, 11am 

Applicants must co-contribute at least 30% of the overall project budget.  

Information sessions 

Sound NSW team members will host online information sessions covering an overview of the 2024-25 Venue Upgrade Grants – Advice & Planning, how to apply, resources to support applications and a Q&A. 

While not mandatory, Sound NSW strongly recommends attending an information session before applying for this program. 

Information session will be held on: 

These information sessions will be recorded and available to view online for those that cannot attend. 

Instructions for applicants 

Before applying, please carefully read the Program Guidelines and FAQs

Incomplete applications and/or applications received after the closing date may not be considered. 

Sound NSW support 

Sound NSW team members are here to help you and can be contacted between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) via: 

Sound NSW Updates

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