INDUSTRY SUPPORT FOR ARTISTS IN NEED
Performers, crew and creatives enthusiastically offer their services to help others in need, but there are often occasions when members of our industry need assistance too.
COVID-19 has caused the complete shutdown of theatres and most film and television productions. With the lack of support for artists and arts workers from the Federal Government, state-run Benevolent Funds have established Emergency Assistance Programs to provide assistance to members from across the industry who are struggling through this crisis.
Each fund is run by a devoted committee of volunteers, who are working with Local Governments, theatre companies, artists and private donors to raise funds to provide crucial support to those in need. During this period, applicants are not means tested, with the hope that requests can be addressed quickly and some relief given before savings are exhausted or superannuation accessed. All applications are treated in the strictest confidence.
“I’m so pleased and honoured to know that I, and all of our members, can look to the various state Benevolent Trusts and Funds in times of hardship. For years, and often with your help, these vital organisations have worked diligently to provide a safety net for our community. COVID-19 is having a devastating impact on the Arts industry and it’s so clear that for so many, right now is the time to ask for help. And they have never been more ready to hear from you” says Equity President, Chloe Dallimore.
ACTORS BENEVOLENT FUND OF NSW
Their COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund provides food/fuel vouchers and/or small cash grants to help meet essential expenses including household bills, physical and mental health needs. Applicants must be permanent residents of NSW or ACT.
ACTORS’ & ENTERTAINERS’ BENEVOLENT FUND OF QUEENSLAND
Providing COVID-19 crisis support to performing arts professionals. Grocery vouchers, free flu shots, and crisis payments of at least $250 per person to help pay for essential expenses like food, rent, utilities, insurance, transport, medical expenses, and crisis counselling. The Fund will also connect performing arts professionals to other support services where required. Applicants must apply via the website and have lost income as a result of COVID-19. ABF QLD supports Queensland-based performing arts professionals.
VICTORIAN ACTORS’ BENEVOLENT TRUST
Their COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund is able to provide food vouchers to the value of $250. Anyone in our community who has been diagnosed with coronavirus, or who may be struggling with mental health issues during this pandemic can visit the VABT website and fill in the standard application form so that your situation can be assessed and additional assistance may be provided. Applicants must be permanent residents of Victoria.
ARTIST RELIEF FUND WA
Is offering grants up to $500 with a faster turnaround, as well as larger one-off or ongoing grants and unconditional loans. Applicants must be permanent residents of WA.
PERFORMERS SUPPORT FUND OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Offering food/fuel vouchers in the value of $100 per person. Applicants must be permanent residents of South Australia or Northern Territory.
NEW ZEALAND ACTORS BENEVOLENT FUND
The Fund provides assistance to past and present industry professionals living with injury, illness or disability
* All funds belong to the Alliance of Australasian Performing Arts Benevolent Funds
