’I love music. It is the most important part of my life. Of course, I vote for those parties who understand how important music is to this community. Vote however you like, just vote music.’’ ARIA 2010 Best Female Artist Megan Washington
‘’Support for the arts is as important for the state as health and education. Think about that when you vote.’’ Musician and producer Mick Harvey
Is music important to you? Do you want to see it high on the agenda at the upcoming state election? Then make sure your voice is heard loud and clear. Ask your local candidate what they will do for music. Will they support the artists, music industry workers and the music community who live and love music?
Across the state musicians struggle with low incomes and stretched support networks, and must contend with fragile legislative environments that can all too easily have a devastating impact. One needs to look no further than the recent battle to save Melbourne’s music scene from poorly planned liquor policy as an example of just how easily jobs and opportunities can be lost.
We call for:
- Comprehensive funding support to the contemporary music sector
- The adoption and implementation of a contemporary music plan that strengthens the capacity of the music industry.
- Leadership on initiatives to protect the critical role played by live music venues across the state.
- Increased funding support for projects and activities that assist artists and industries that promote Victorian music.
- Increased support for skills development
- Increased support for audience and market development
The music industry is leading the way in developing new ways to take Victorian talent to the world. This is an industry driven by artists and businesses who are innovative forward thinkers.
We were heartened to see music’s multi-faceted contribution acknowledged at policy level in the state government’s proposal last week, and we look forward to music being taken as seriously in the forthcoming Liberal and Greens policies. The gauntlet has been thrown down to the other parties to now demonstrate their strong support and belief in the importance of Victorian arts and culture.
Find your candidate on the Victorian election site 131VEC.com.au. Let them know that you love music and you vote!
Be sure to study all the parties’ music policies and make an educated decision on November 27. Parties’ policies will be put online at slamrally.org as they are made public and all candidates are encouraged to show their support for music on the ‘I Love Music and I Vote’ page on Facebook.
