COVID-19 Support

A collection of relevant resources providing COVID-19 support specifically to our community. Last updated October 2021.

Support Act

Support Act Wellbeing Helpline: 1800 959 500
The Support Act Wellbeing Helpline is a free, confidential phone counselling service, available 24/7 to anyone anywhere in Australia working in the music, performing arts, or other creative industries. They also offer dedicated support services for First Nations people.

If you would like to speak with a clinician of a particular age, gender, religion, race, sexuality, political bias or any other diverse background or experience, please let the team know when you call. If you prefer not to speak on the phone, there is also an email form on their website.

COVID-19 Crisis Relief Grants
Support Act, with funding from the Australian Government, is offering one-off cash grants, COVID-19 Crisis Relief Grants, of $2,000 ($2,700 to families with dependent children) to music and performing arts workers, which includes production and technical crew, management and administration. These grants are not competitive, are available to everyone who meets the simple criteria, and there is no deadline to apply by.

 

Arts Wellbeing Collective

The Arts Wellbeing Collective is a preventative health initiative from Arts Centre Melbourne that aims to provide services and resources to support positive mental health in our industry. Their website includes a range of excellent resources such as videos, articles, and podcasts from industry practitioners and experts who understand our industry. 

 

Assistance from your Employer

If you are currently employed or are stood down, find out if your employer offers an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), what support this provider can give you, and how you can access this service.

Also ask if your employer is introducing Paid Pandemic Leave, or Vaccination Leave.