The Australia Council has announced over $1.4 million in grants to support Australian music.

The funds will provide operational support for a number of organisations, as well as funding artists, groups and managers for international touring, showcasing, and market development.

Grants of up to $50,000 have been allocated to the various state and territory music bodies such as Music Victoria, QMusic, WAM and Music NT. They are to be spent on service delivery, skills development or the presentation of music.

Smaller organisations, music schools, programs and festivals were awarded funding too; including a series of jazz, folk and experimental music events.

“It’s great to be able to support organisations working across such a wide range of music practices and delivering outcomes around the country” said the Council director of music Paul Mason, “in response to the demand for Australian musicians internationally, we also not only fund the significant Sounds Australia program, but also provide grants to support touring and showcasing.”

Artists and managers can be paid in grants to ply their trades internationally, with funding last year going to several tours and the attendance of music industry events.

More information on the funds and how to apply is available from the Australia Council.