Life is always better with music. But, without our talented Aussie musicians, there would be less rhythm and groove in all our lives. So today, on Ausmusic T-Shirt Day, I stand to celebrate and support our Aussie artists. You guys rock! You give us all so much joy.

On the weekend I had the privilege of opening one of Victoria's best-known festivals, the Queenscliff Music Festival. Now in its 25th year, it provides a platform for talented Australian artists. I'm proud to be part of a government that has funded this and thousands of other artistic events around the nation. The Albanese Labor government recognises just how important the arts are for our cultural identity, our economy and our wellbeing. And so it was last weekend, when festival-goers grooved the night away to the soulful sounds of Alice Ivy, Ian Moss and The Badloves, just to name a few.

The Queenscliff Music Festival is not only about celebrating music; it celebrates community spirit. It is backed by the Queenscliff council, managed by passionate locals and driven by a team of hardworking volunteers. Congratulations to all involved. May the Queenscliff Music Festival thrive for years to come, and may government continue to support our amazing musicians, because music is good for the soul, it's good for our national identity, and it's good for our economy.