ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

Who can the VABT assist?

The VABT supports those who work in theatre, film and television: on and off stage, in front of and behind the camera. Whilst our name may reference actors, we help all performing arts professionals: performers, creatives and crew.

Our assistance program is available to Victorian-based performing arts workers and reaches across many disciplines – theatre, film, TV, circus, dance, opera and comedy.

For information available to Australian musicians and those working in the music industry, as well as information on Benevolent Funds and Trusts providing assistance in other Australian states, please see our list of Additional Resources.

What about Tasmania?

Through our membership in the Australasian Alliance of Performing Arts Benevolent Funds (AAPABF), the VABT is providing tailored support to performers, creatives and crew based in Tasmania.

What assistance is available?

The VABT provides emergency financial assistance through it’s Emergency Support program to members of our community who have suffered a health crisis or medical emergency.

In the past, financial relief has been provided for varied purposes including, but not limited to, covering medical and dental costs, utility bills or respite care, as well as financial assistance to help purchase groceries or basic survival items. Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, so the assistance offered is often tailored specifically to the needs of the applicant.

The VABT is unable to provide financial support to those applicants who are unemployed or underemployed and who otherwise are not experiencing ill health or a medical emergency. The VABT is also unable to contribute to production or film fundraising.

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How do I apply?

All applications are assessed on a confidential and case-by-case basis by the VABT’s volunteer Committee of Management.

Applications are made online via the VABT’s website.