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PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation

What is the PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation?

Established in 1975, the PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation promotes and encourages music and the performing arts by providing grants.

The grants provided are non-recurring (i.e., one-off grants rather than a periodical payment), and are determined by the four trustees of the trust.

two (including the Chairman) are appointed by the PPCA
one is appointed by the Musicians' Union of Australia
one is appointed by the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (formerly Actors' Equity)

On what basis can you apply for a grant?

All applications for grants are reviewed by the trustees and must be for one or more of the following purposes:

performances at concerts at or for charitable institutions such as hospitals or homes for the aged
scholarships for the promotion and encouragement of musical and theatrical education
the promotion and encouragement of the performing arts to the general public
the aid or assistance of any beneficiary who is unable to adequately maintain herself/himself by her/his own exertions and other income

What can you use the grant for?

A grant under the PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation can be used for costs associated with the above, including:

Tuition fees
Travel costs (hire, airfares, petrol)
Accommodation
Venue hire/ PA hire

A grant cannot be used to cover wages, salaries, commissions etc.

What types of applications are unlikely to be successful?

Although the trust is discretionary, the trustees are guided by the 'purposes' articulated in the trust deed. As a result, it is not their usual practice to approve funding for any project of a commercial nature. This would include:

investments in recordings (e.g., studio time, producers fees, session musician fees, manufacturing or distribution costs);
concert or festival promotion or staging costs;
tour support;
artist management expenses; or
equipment purchases.

You should also note that the trustees are unlikely to approve applications seeking funding for the majority of costs related to a project, and look to applicants to contribute and/or explore additional funding sources.

Is there a limit to how much you can apply for?

There is no specified limit. However, funds are finite and there is no guarantee that you will receive all or any of the funds you request.

It is unusual for grants to be approved in excess of :

$2,500 for an individual; or
$5,000 for a group or organisation

If you've received a grant before, can you apply again?

Yes, successful applicants are not precluded from reapplying. However, the trustees do assess each application on its own merits, and previous success will neither assure nor preclude the progress of your application.

What should you include in your application?

There's no specific format for applications except that they must be in writing. However, including the following information in your application will make it faster and easier for the trustees to evaluate:

proof of tuition/study classes e.g., letters from education bodies, receipts
a budget, showing accurate costings including any other contributions anticipated
a demonstrated need for assistance (financial)
an outline of the purpose/objective of the course and expected outcomes
a willingness to share knowledge/techniques acquired through organised workshops
a willingness to report on the value of the course
an illustration of the general benefit to the industry derived from the grant

The trust's funds are limited and all applications are carefully considered before a final decision is made. When making an application, it's in your best interest to include as much detail and supporting information as possible.

How is your application assessed?

The trustees meet four times a year to consider applications. Applications are circulated to all trustees prior to each meeting.

How are you notified of the result?

All applicants receive written notification once the trustees have met to consider the applications.

Where do you send your application?

Applications must be in writing and can be sent to:

The PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation
PO Box Q20
QVB
Sydney NSW 1230

For members of the Musician's Union of Australia, applications in writing can also be submitted via their local branch office to The PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation (address above).

For members of the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance, applications in writing can also be submitted via their local branch office to The PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation (address above).

When are applications considered?

The trustees of the trust typically meet four times a year (approximately once every three months) to consider applications. Contact us if you want to find out the date of the next meeting of the trustees.

For more information on the PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation, call us on (02) 8569 1100 or e-mail us at trust.mail@ppca.com.au